Phosphorus (P) is an essential element for our body as it constitutes a part of DNA and proteins involved in signal transduction in cells. It needs, therefore, to be tightly regulated. Too little or too much P has major impact on our health. Too little P causes a plethora of symptoms including muscle weakness and rachitic bones. Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23) is the most important regulator of P and is produced primarily in bone cells. Excess FGF23 leads e.g., to urinary loss of P, which will results in inappropriately low serum P levels (hypophosphatemia), which has consequences for many processes in our body depending on P, including bone mineralization. One example is Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia (TIO), where FGF23 is ectopically expressed, but its etiology is unknown. P enters the body through the diet and in recent years it is often added into food products such as soda drinks and ready meals as taste enhancer.

Despite the fact that too much P intake may damage our health, there is still no obligatory labelling of the amount of P in food. In conclusion, it is vital that P homeostasis is well-controlled but its regulation is poorly understood. In this project called Phospho-Norm, which is funded by Health~Holland, we aim to unravel the etiology and consequences of disturbed phosphate homeostasis. The main objectives are: 1) Study the regulation, synthesis and cleavage of FGF23 in bone and TIO-derived cells. 2) Unravel the P sensing machinery in bone and downstream consequences for P and FGF23.

The candidate holds a MSc degree in Life Sciences (Biomedical Sciences, Biology or Biochemistry or equivalent) with a strong interest in Molecular and Cellular Biology. We seek a talented and ambitious researcher who is flexible and has good communicative skills and who is highly proficient in both spoken and written English. The candidate preferably has strong affinity for cellular and molecular biology techniques, gene manipulation, protein analysis and bioinformatics. Also, the candidate should be willing to work with laboratory animals.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct, a valid proof of identity, diploma's and/ or relevant registration such as BIG/ RGS are conditions for the appointment.

The appointment concerns a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.279,- in the 1st year and increases to € 2.919,- in the 4th year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

Erasmus MC stands for a healthy population and excellence in healthcare. By conducting groundbreaking work, we aim to push boundaries through leading the way in research, education and healthcare. We have access to the latest equipment and techniques in a state-of-the-art environment.

This research is performed within the lab of Calcium and Bone Metabolism of the Department of Internal Medicine. Collaboration with the 'state of the art' genetic lab and the Bone Centre within the same department is anticipated.