We seek a postdoctoral fellow to help lead a new research program aimed at translation of a novel gene editing platform into a clinical application for the treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a fatal neuromuscular genetic disorder, primarily affecting boys due to an X-linked mutation in the DMD gene, resulting in loss of dystrophin. Patients display progressive muscle weakness and paralysis, leading to death from respiratory insufficiency and cardiomyopathy. The project’s aim is to develop a gene-editing therapy for DMD patients, using transduction of recombinant CRISPR/Cas9 RNPs. The results of the project will provide important proof-of-concept evidence of the efficacy and safety of this approach.

In short

·        The project’s aim is to develop a gene-editing therapy for DMD patients

·        You have a PhD degree combined with experience in molecular and cell biology

·        You will work in a collaborative international environment

Candidates must have a PhD degree with experience in molecular and cell biology and affinity for translational research. Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology or animal models of genetic muscle disorders is a plus. The candidate will work in an international academic environment, so strong verbal and written English skills are required. Good communication and organization skills, teamwork, are necessary to be part of a collaborative team of researchers on this project.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

You will be employed on the basis of 36 hours per week. Appointment is initially for a year, possibly to be extended after a positive evaluation. Your salary is based on your education and experience and is a maximum of  € 4,615  gross per month for a full time position (scale 10 in the Collective Labour Agreement for University Hospitals).

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 Anatomy and Embryology

The Department of Anatomy and Embryology is specialized in research on human normal development and the pathogenesis of (genetic) disorders, and is responsible for teaching and research in Clinical Anatomy. We employ advanced, stem-cell based, 3D in vitro differentiation models, as well as murine and chicken experimental model systems. In addition, we develop novel technologies for genome, epigeneome and transcriptome manipulation, both in vitro and in vivo.