Mutations in LMNA, the gene encoding the lamin A/C protein which makes up the matrix of the nuclear lamina, lead to the most severe form of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The exact mechanism how mutations lead to DCM are poorly understood, lacking specific treatment options besides general heart failure therapy. However, not all patients with a LMNA mutation develop DCM. What molecular and metabolic mechanisms underly the distinction in which LMNA carriers will develop DCM?

The PhD position that we offer provides opportunities to explore and investigate this research question. Together with a team of experienced supervisors from the departments of Cardiology, Genetics and Cell Biology, Clinical Genetics and Biochemistry, the PhD student will have the freedom to explore this topic. The main focus of the project is on generating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-cardiomyocytes of patients, perform metabolic and functional profiling, and explore potential therapies. In addition, the PhD-student will work on the Maastricht Cardiomyopathy Registry, a large clinical DCM patient database and has the freedom to use and analyze clinical data of this unique and large registry for research purposes.

We are looking for a candidate with a (research) master of science (MSc) in biomedical sciences or a medical degree (MD), with an interest in translational research, willing to perform and learn stem cell work. Being creative, independent and having experience with cell work is an advantage.

Temporary employment for 4 years. The first year will be a probation period, after a positive assessment the position will be extended for another 3 years, which happens in the vast majority of cases.

Your salary will be € 2,541 gross per month in the first year up to € 3,247 gross per month in the fourth year according to the PhD-candidate salary scale. An 8% holiday and an 8.3% year-end allowance is also provided.

In addition to good primary employment conditions, UM also offers an attractive package of secondary employment conditions.
Each year an evaluation will take place.

The terms of employment of Maastricht University are set out in the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO). Furthermore, local UM provisions also apply. For more information look at the website www.maastrichtuniversity.nl > About UM > Working at UM.

Maastricht University

Maastricht University is renowned for its unique, innovative, problem-based learning system, which is characterized by a small-scale and student-oriented approach. Research at UM is characterized by a multidisciplinary and thematic approach, and is concentrated in research institutes and schools. Maastricht University has around 22,000 students and about 5,000 employees. Reflecting the university's strong international profile, a fair amount of both students and staff are from abroad. The university hosts 6 faculties: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Faculty of Law, School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience. 
For more information, visit www.maastrichtuniversity.nl.