What you will be doing
You will be responsible for the application of non-invasive viral vectors, setting up and running the MS animal models and the functional testing in these models. Subsequently, histological analysis to determine the effect of the therapeutic intervention will be done.

In the project, we develop non-invasive viral vectors that target CNS cells, including astrocytes, oligodendrocyte and microglia. These vectors will be used to express the targets, identified in human brain tissue, in MS animal models to study their effects on brain repair at the anatomical and functional level.

What you will be contributing
You have a bachelor in applied science (BAS) degree in zoology (HLO level; article 12)., experience with experimental animal research, preferably the MS models and/or behavioural testing. Having experience with histological techniques would be an asset. Experience with molecular biological techniques, in particular viral vector and in vivo imaging technology and experimental animal research are requirements for this position.

We are looking for team players with a specific interest in MS and brain repair, with excellent communication skills and an ability to work and troubleshoot independently and collaboratively.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year with possibility for an extension.

Depending on education and experience the minimum salary is € 2693,00 and the maximum salary is € 4103,00 gross per month for a full-time appointment (scale 7 or scale 8 cao Nederlandse Universiteiten/KNAW). This is exclusive of 8% vacation allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, travel allowance, internet allowance, home working allowance and pension accrual with ABP.

The KNAW offers its staff an excellent package of secondary benefits. A package that meets the different needs of employees depending on their stage of life, lifestyle or career ambitions. For example, by working an extra two hours a week, it is possible to increase the number of days off from 29 to 41 days a year (with full-time employment).

For a complete overview of the terms of employment, please refer to the web page: werken bij de KNAW.

Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct can be part of the employment procedure.

Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience

The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), an institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, is carrying out fundamental and strategic brain research. The Neuroregeneration group (NRG), led by Prof Joost Verhaagen, aims to develop gene therapy to repair nerve damage in the central nervous system (CNS) and the Neuroimmunology Research (IMM) group, led by Prof Inge Huitinga, studies the molecular and cellular factors underlying the pathology of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Regenerative therapy for Multiple Sclerosis
In a joint research program of Verhaagen and Huitinga we plan to develop a regenerative therapy to restore function in MS. Our approach is to apply cutting edge gene therapy technology to deliver therapeutic targets to the CNS to stimulate functional recovery. For this ambitious project we are looking for a biotechnician to strengthen the team.