Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are genetic eye disorders characterized by severe visual impairment, often progressing to complete blindness. Although long considered incurable, recent advances have changed perspective and experimental therapies aiming to halt the progression of the disease, or even improve vision have reached the clinic. In our lab, we have focused our attention on developing splice modulation therapies for the treatment of specific genetic subtypes of IRD.

A recently awarded grant by the Foundation Fighting Blindness USA allows us to further expand our activities and develop novel therapeutic strategies based on the concept of modulation of pre-mRNA splicing, and to translate promising strategies to the clinic.

Tasks

• Plan and perform scientific in vitro and in vivo experiments in an independent manner;
• Critically analyze data;
• Supervise junior scientists (technicians, MSc/BSc students) in the lab;
• Take a leading role in writing manuscripts;
• Present data at local, national and international scientific meetings;
• Participate in educational tasks.

Candidates must have obtained their PhD degree in the last two years (or submitted their thesis to the manuscript committee), in the field of molecular and/or cellular biology. They need to have a strong experimental background in molecular (genetic) research, including studies with DNA, RNA and/or protein (e.g. PCR, cloning, RT-PCR, Western Blot, immunocytochemistry), and cell culture, and preferably have detailed knowledge on pre-mRNA splicing.

Candidates should also have permission to work with animals (article 9, or a foreign equivalent). Hands-on experience or affinity working with mice is required, and experience with differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells is considered a strong plus.

Finally, candidates should have strong communication skills (both orally and in writing), a critical scientific attitude, a high level of ambition, and should be able to work both independently as well as in a team.

Upon commencement of employment we require a certificate of conduct (Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag, VOG) and there will be a screening based on the provided CV. Radboud university medical center's HR Department will apply for this certificate on your behalf.

Read more about the Radboudumc employment conditions and what our International Office can do for you when moving to the Netherlands.

Radboudumc

The "Molecular Therapies for Inherited Eye Diseases" group, led by Dr. Rob Collin, and the recently established "Therapeutic RNA/DNA editing" group led by Dr. Alex Garanto, aim to develop various therapeutic interventions for inherited retinal diseases, with a strong focus on splice modulation and RNA therapies. The research is embedded at the Department of Human Genetics within the Radboudumc in Nijmegen, which is internationally renowned for its research and diagnostics on a variety of genetic and genomic disorders. The department offers an exciting working environment with enthusiastic people from many parts of the world enjoying high quality research.

Radboudumc
Radboudumc strives to be a leading developer of sustainable, innovative and affordable healthcare to improve the health and wellbeing of people and society in the Netherlands and beyond. This is the core of our mission: To have a significant impact on healthcare. To get a better picture of what this entails, check out our strategy.

Read more about what it means to work at Radboudumc and how you can do your part.