You will investigate how BCOR/L1 loss-of-function mutations exert an oncogenic effect in healthy hematopoietic stem cells, and why paradoxically BCOR and BCORL1 display oncogenic properties in established AML cells. This project builds on earlier work from our group related to non-canonical Polycomb complexes in AML (Van den Boom et al., Cell Reports, 2016; Maat et al., iScience, 2021). Both positions require excellent molecular skills and will include CRISPR-Cas gene editing in primary hematopoietic cells, detailed molecular analyses of affected molecular pathways, and screening in vivo effects using xenograft mouse models.

The offered positions are funded by the Dutch Cancer Society, and we are looking for enthusiastic researchers that are eager to make a strong contribution to this research field.

- MSc degree in biomedical/life-sciences related subject.
- Excellent writing and presentation skills in English.
- Strong team player with the ability to work independently.
- Experience with cell biological techniques (i.e. eukaryotic tissue culture) is required.
- Experience with epigenetic techniques and NGS data processing is a pro.
- Open to generating mouse models.

The UMCG has a preventive Hepatitis B policy. The UMCG can provide you with the vaccination, should it be required for your position.
In case of specific professions a ‘Certificate of Good Conduct’ is required.

You will get a full-time (36 hours a week) contract for 1 year, which will be extended for 3 years after evaluation. Your salary will be a minimum of € 2.789,- gross per month in the first year and a maximum of € 3.536,- gross per month (scale PRO) in the final (4th) year, based on a full-time appointment. In addition, the UMCG will offer you 8% holiday pay, and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. The conditions of employment comply with the Collective Labour Agreement for Medical Centres (CAO-UMC).

The position offered is for four years. First, a temporary one-year position will be offered with the option of renewal for another three years. Extension of the contract will be based on sufficient progress and the expectation of a successful completion of the PhD project.

Hematologie

Are you interested in how epigenetic regulators determine cell fate decisions in healthy blood stem cells and how mutations in these genes give rise to leukemia? Currently, two PhD positions are available within the Department of Experimental Hematology, focusing on the role of BCOR and BCORL1 mutations in AML. For more information also check our Twitter.