We are looking for two PhD students to work together with our research team on the role of inflammation and the innate immune system in the development of atherosclerosis in subjects with obesity. In a cohort study in 300 subjects with obesity omics-based data (genomics, metabolomics) are integrated with detailed phenotyping of the innate immune system and in a subgroup bone marrow progenitors. This approach has been developed within The Human Functional Genomics Projects (HFGP) of which the present study is part of. In addition, several in vivo intervention studies have been planned, as well as in vitro studies on innate immune memory.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Analyze samples of cohorts: circulating markers and cytokine production after ex vivo stimulation PBMCs;
• For the clinical PhD student: plan and execute small proof-of-concept intervention studies in subjects with obesity;
• Plan and perform scientific in vitro experiments in an independent manner;
• Critically analyze data;
• Take a leading role in writing manuscripts;
• Present data at local, national and international scientific meetings;
• Supervise MSc and/or BSc students;
• Write and defend a PhD thesis within four years of starting the project;
• Candidate will take part in the graduate school of Radboudumc.

• MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences or Molecular Life Sciences or a related field; or an MD degree;
• Solid theoretical background in immunology and cell biology;
• Experience with molecular biology is considered a strong plus;
• Experience with bio-informatics is considered a plus;
• Hands-on experience with standard laboratory techniques;
• Strong ambition to succeed in science, be result-oriented;
• Critical scientific attitude and be able to work both independently as well as in a group;
• Excellent communication skills; oral and in writing.

The gross monthly salary, depending on education will be scale 10A (max. € 3.020) or scale 10 (max. € 4.361) based on a full-time working week (excl. vacation bonus and 8,3% end of year payments).

Upon commencement of employment we require a certificate of conduct (Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag, VOG) and there will be, depending on the type of job, 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 Department of Internal Medicine is a large clinical department with its own laboratory, in which approximately 40 PhD students work together with postdoc's and technicians. The research focus of the department is innate immunity. The current positions are within the group that focuses on the role of the innate immune system in the development of atherosclerosis.

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.