Obesity is a global health care problem and forms a major risk factor for metabolic comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. While the obesogenic environment has contributed to increased obesity rates, genetic factors modulate the susceptibility for obesity. Our research within the Obesity Center CGG (Centrum Gezond Gewicht) shows that obese patients frequently harbor genetic mutations or variants as an underlying cause of their obesity, particularly in children with an early onset of severe obesity.

The Laboratory of Metabolism and Reproduction in the Department of Internal Medicine has a vacant PhD position for a project aimed at understanding the functional consequences of these mutations. The PhD candidate will apply various signaling assays to study several receptor signaling pathways. Obtained results will be analyzed for genotype-phenotype correlation. This research will contribute to personalized treatment of obesity as it may aid in the selection of patients for specific therapeutic treatments.

You are a highly motivated candidate with an MSc in Biology, Biomedical Sciences or a related discipline with an interest in Endocrinology and Obesity. Experience with molecular biology, receptor signaling and metabolic physiology is strongly preferred. You are capable to work independently and in a multidisciplinary environment. You have excellent communication and writing skills.

You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.422,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.103,- in the 4th year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

The Department of Internal Medicine is a large department with several research groups. The research group "Metabolism and Reproduction" focuses on various aspects of obesity, including functional genetics of obesity, sex differences in obesity and the interaction between gonadal function and metabolism. We approach our research questions using physiological and molecular techniques in cell systems, animal models and humans. An important principle that guides our efforts is the possibility to apply our findings in the clinic and, vice versa, paying attention to questions that arise in the clinic when treating patients. You will be a member of a team that consists of other PhD students, basic scientists and clinical scientists. You will interact and collaborate closely with researchers of the CGG team, supervised by Prof. E.F.C. van Rossum and Dr. E.L.T. van den Akker.