Herpesviruses are typically acquired during childhood, followed by the establishment of lifelong latent infections from which they reactivate later in life to spread to naive hosts. The aim of the HerpesLabNL is to elucidate the virus-host interactions involved in the immune control and pathogenesis of herpesvirus infections in humans.

In this project, the PhD candidate will characterize the interplay between the host innate immune responses and the human neurotropic herpesviruses HSV-1, HSV-2, and VZV at the molecular and biochemical level. Specifically, a multidisciplinary approach will be applied to investigate how RNA degradation pathways restrict herpesvirus infectio. And how herpesviruses in turn modulate this innate host response using highly relevant and physiological human in-vitro and ex-vivo neuronal model systems.

We are looking for a motivated and talented candidate that:

• Holds a MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular or Cell Biology, or a related field.
• Is highly driven to unravel the molecular details of virus-host interactions.
• Has demonstrated affinity with various molecular and/or virological laboratory techniques. This is an advantage.
• Has an excellent command of the English language. This is required, both oral and written.

• You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.901,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.677,- in the 4th year (scale OIO).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and an individual travel expense package.
• Pension insurance with ABP, we take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as an incompany physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. There is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work.

Erasmus MC

A healthy population and excellence in healthcare through research and education. This is what Erasmus MC stands for. Conducting groundbreaking work, pushing boundaries and leading the way. In research, education and healthcare. We are practical people with a high level of expertise, working hard to improve and renew healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow.

The Viroscience department of the Erasmus MC employs more than 200 employees of different disciplines. It runs an extensive experimental research program on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, prevention and treatment of infections by human and animal viruses.

The department provides well-equipped clinical and experimental virology labs. In which all the state-of-the-art techniques in virology, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, and pathology that are required for this project are operational. The successful candidate will be appointed in the workgroup HerpeslabNL (www.herpeslab.nl) of the Viroscience department.