Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 (SCA3) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disease that is caused by a polyglutamine expansion in the ataxin-1 protein and Huntington disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that is caused by a polyglutamine expansion in the huntingtin protein. For both disorders, the polyglutamine research group is developing a therapy that will target the mutant mRNA to reduce toxicity of the mutant protein using cell and animal models of these diseases. This project is one of several projects of the research group, designing antisense oligonucleotide therapeutic strategies for brain disorders. The polyglutamine group is led by Dr. Willeke van Roon-Mom. You will be part of this project.

The ideal candidate has a PhD degree in Biomedical Science (or an equivalent) and a solid experience in molecular and cellular biology. You have a strong interest in neurodegenerative disorders. You possess very good laboratory skills in different PCR applications, cell culture techniques, protein work and cell imaging technologies. Holding an animal certificate ex article 9 (Dutch Animal Act) and having worked with mouse models is essential. You have experience with project management, a flexible work attitude and excellent oral and written communication skills (also in English).

Appointment is for 36 hours per week. You will be appointed for one year, with a possible extension for another year. Your salary is based on your education and experience and is a maximum of € 4,216 gross per month based on fulltime employment (scale 10 of the Collective Labor Agreement UMC).  

Human Genetic

The Department of Human Genetics is a broadly oriented research department with focus on the (epi)genomic contribution to inherited and acquired diseases. The Department consists of twenty self-contained research groups that perform research in four different themes.  The research team led by Dr. Willeke van Roon-Mom is embedded in the theme ‘Functional Genomics of Muscle, Nerve and Brain Disorders’. This theme links to the LUMC’s Medical Profile Area ’Translational Neuroscience’. There are strong national and international collaborations to exchange knowledge and research experience on SCA3 and HD.