The number and size of cysts increase over time, finally causing renal failure. The main focus of our research is to unravel the disease mechanism and to develop novel therapies. To this end, mouse models, cell lines and organoids are used with (tissue-specific) disruption of the gene involved, in combination with molecular biological, genetic and drug identification strategies. In the current project, we will identify and functionally characterise the factors involved in early molecular alterations in cystic tissues, with the goal to identify key molecules involved in progressive cyst formation. You will apply molecular biological techniques combined with animal studies, 3D cell culture, cell biology and microscopic analyses. The research is funded by the Dutch Kidney Foundation.

Summary of the required skills

·        You hold an MSc Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biopharmaceutical Sciences or similar

·        You have demonstrable experience with molecular and cell biological techniques and lab skills

·        You are a critical thinker, independent and flexible, and able to work in a team

·        You possess excellent communication skills

·        Experience with animal research is to your advantage

We are looking for an enthusiastic and driven researcher with an MSc degree in biomedical sciences, molecular biology, biopharmaceutical sciences or equivalent. You have gained ample experience with molecular and cellular biology, including PCR and western blotting, cell culture techniques and/or (immune-)histology. You are a team player, take initiative, are accurate, possess strong laboratory skills and have affinity with bioinformatics. Preferably, you have experience with animal research and hold an animal certificate ex article 3A (former art. 9, Dutch Animal Act). You show critical and independent thinking, have a flexible work attitude and excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

You will be employed on the basis of 36 hours per week. Appointment is for a maximum of four years, to be completed with a doctoral thesis. Your salary will start with € 2,422 gross per month in the first year, amounting to a maximum of  € 3,103  gross per month in the fourth year based on a fulltime position (scale for PhD students in the Collective Labour Agreement for University

LUMC

 At the Leiden University Medical Center, we continuously work on improving patient care. We invest in groundbreaking, international research and work with the latest equipment. Together with our team of doctors, medical specialists, teachers, academic researchers and supporting staff, we aim for the best quality in health care, education and international research. And we need you to realize our goals!

Department of Human Genetics

The Department of Human Genetics is a broadly oriented research department, led by Professor Silvère van der Maarel, focusing on the genetic aspects of monogenic, multifactorial and acquired diseases, and the translation into clinical relevance. The department consists of 21 research units, embedded in four overarching research themes. Research on Polycystic Kidney Disease, led by Professor Dorien Peters, is a multidisciplinary program in which we closely collaborate with other departments/institutes within the LUMC, Leiden University the Leiden Bioscience park. Several national and international research collaborations are coordinated from this group. This project fits within the theme ‘Functional Genomics of Systemic Disorders'. This theme is embedded in the LUMC Medical Research Profile ‘Vascular and Regenerative Medicine'.