Huntington disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that is caused by a polyglutamine expansion in the huntingtin protein. The polyglutamine research group is developing a therapy that will target the mutant mRNA to reduce toxicity of the mutant protein using induced pluripotent stem cell models of the disease. 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 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. Experience in working with induced pluripotent stem cells is an advantage. You have experience with project management, a flexible work attitude and excellent oral and written communication skills (also in English).

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

You will be employed on the basis of a 36-hour week. Appointment will be for 1 year, with a possible extension of another year. The salary will depend on your qualifications and experience, with a maximum of € 4,481 gross per month based on a full time position (scale 10 of the Collective Labor Agreement for University Hospitals).

LUMC

At the Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), we are continually seeking to improve the quality of healthcare. The LUMC aims for excellence in patient care, research, teaching, training and continuing education.

http://www.lumc.nl/

The Department of Human Genetics

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 HD.