Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as autism or schizophrenia have a big societal impact but their molecular causes are still poorly understood and they cannot be diagnosed by genetic means in the majority of (future) patients. Identifying the contributing genetic variants (SNPs) in patients would greatly help on the above problems. We will use a high-throughput transcription assay, SuRE, to find functional variants among millions of common and rare SNPs.

In the project the PhD student will perform SuRE in human neural stem cells and analyze identified functional SNPs from a gene-regulation and NDD perspective. The work involves both molecular biology and bioinformatics. The project is part of a collaboration with Hieab Adams and Bas van Steensel.

Your responsibilities will include co-designing and performing experiments, data analysis, documenting and reporting results in lab- and departmental meetings and at (inter-)national conferences.

• We are looking for a talented, highly motivated candidate that holds an MSc degree in a natural or medical science.
• Practical experience with molecular biology is required and experience with bioinformatics is a plus.

• You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.495,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.196,- in the 4th year (scale OIO).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and a individual travel expense package.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as a in company physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. And there is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work.

Erasmus MC

The Transcriptional regulators of cognition group is part of the Department of Cell Biology, which houses innovative technologies and top-level facilities to support its research programs. The main focus of the department is on transcription regulation and genome organization in (neuro-)developmental and blood cell forming systems. The department is embedded in the dynamic, internationally competitive research community of over 40 biomedical research labs within the Erasmus MC.

The main language of the research community is English. During the PhD training, our students follow specialized lab courses organized by the Graduate School at Erasmus MC.