In this multidisciplinary PhD project we aim to develop high resolution mass spectrometry-based methods in combination with separation techniques for the comprehensive characterization of disease-associated antibodies. You will work with high-resolution MS and apply intact, top-down and middle-up/down approaches. You will also develop affinity approaches (e.g. affinity capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry) to study the differential binding of antibody proteoforms to key receptors. You will apply the techniques to study autoantibodies from patient samples of three autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and ANCA-associated vasculitis) to understand their pathogenicity and find new disease biomarkers.

In short

·         You will contribute to unravel antibody diversity and their biological implications under specific disease conditions

·         You will work on the structural and functional characterization of autoantibodies derived from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, ANCA-associated vasculitis and rheumatoid arthritis

·         This is a multidisciplinary PhD project in collaboration with the departments of Rheumatology and Nephrology

You hold a MSc degree in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences or a biomedical area (or will do so on short term). You have some experience with analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography or capillary electrophoresis preferably for protein analysis, and you have good technical skills. You have an interest and background in protein biochemistry and bioanalytical method development. You have a fascination for clinically relevant analysis in the field of immunology. You are fluent in English, like to work in a team and have good communication and writing skills.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

You will be appointed for the duration of four years. Your salary is a maximum of € 2,495 in the first year, amounting to a maximum of € 3,196 in the final year (scale Pro, Collective Labour Agreement University Medical Centers).

LUMC

At the Leiden University Medical Center, we continuously work on improving patient care. We invest in groundbreaking, international research and work with the latest equipment. Together with our team of doctors, medical specialists, teachers, academic researchers and supporting staff, we aim for the best quality in health care, education and international research. And we need you to realize our goals!