We are looking for a motivated postdoc fellow for the ERC Advanced project entitled ‘reversing vaccine hypo-responsivess’. There is a growing realization that vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy varies greatly across populations and that it is often reduced in low income countries, particularly in rural areas. Restoring vaccine hypo-responsiveness is expected to help improve the quality of life for many in less affluent parts of the world. Therefore, you will be working on a project that aims to define the immunological and metabolic basis underlying immune hypo-responsiveness and to identify pathways that can be targeted for reversal. To this end, you will perform an in depth characterization of immune profiles from study cohorts of distinct geographical areas, using the latest single cell technologies, at proteomic, metabolic, transcriptomic and epigenetic level. This will be complemented with, human tonsil organoids as in vitro model of testing vaccine responses. Finally, human vaccines will be tested with modulatory compounds in phase I trials to pave the way for rapid testing of the most promising compounds, as identified in the in vitro studies, to reverse vaccine hypo-responsiveness.
 

In short

·       You will contribute to research on hypo-responsiveness of vaccines

·       Restoring vaccine hypo-responsiveness is expected to help improve the life for many in less affluent parts of the world

·       You will perform an in depth characterization of immune profiles from study cohorts of distinct geographical areas

·       You will use the latest single cell technologies, at proteomic, metabolic, transcriptomic and epigenetic leve

You have a PhD in biomedical sciences, with experience in single cell immune profiling. You have practical experience with high-dimensional data analysis and it would be an asset if you have experience in epigenetics and/or immunemetabolism. Experience in advanced cell culture and organoids research would be another strong plus point. You are a highly motivated, enthusiastic,  independent team player with a flexible work approach and the ability to perform effectively within a multidisciplinary international team. English language skills are essential for communication within the team, but also for scientific presentations and publications.

Fixed-term contract: min. 2 year.

You will be employed on the basis of 36 hours per week. Appointment is for two years. Your salary is based on your education and experience and is a maximum of  € 4,707  gross per month for a full time position (scale 10 in the Collective Labour Agreement for University Hospitals).

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!