The focus will be on understanding Neutrophil Extracellular Trap (NET) formation, with a focus on its meaning in inflammatory disease. Although the scientific literature on this theme is full of supposed associations of NETs and mechanisms of disease, in reality there is little known about the cellular principles as to how these extraordinary cells extrude their DNA as a final ‘moment of glory’.

Our research group has extensive experience and tools to study this process in great detail and elucidate the mechanisms involved to advance the field and target the steps of NET formation by drug discovery.

What you will do

As a member of our Neutrophil Group you will further develop current test systems to determine the mechanisms of NET formation, the key elements to block the process and hence avoid collateral tissue damage. The presumed effects of neutrophil-derived DNA are initiation of complement activation and coagulation as well as cell death of tissue cells, which are suggested mechanisms involved in acute organ damage in patients.

Our expertise on innate immunity and the many functional neutrophil assays available will be combined in this project with plasma proteomics to elucidate the possible key factors involved. The ultimate goal is to find means to inhibit NET formation. The functional findings of the work may bear immediate relevance to acute organ damage and forms of vascular damage, as we will further explore within our wide network of collaborators.

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with good communication skills and an affinity with translational research.

•      A master degree in biology, (bio)molecular/biomedical/pharmaceutical sciences or equivalent.
  • Some experience in molecular biology will be a competitive advantage;
  • An independent, responsible and team-oriented candidate;
  • Good communication and writing skills in English.

We offer a PhD position under good supervision in a scientifically oriented setting with unique expertise in innate immunity and tissue damage. Sanquin is a leading research institute in the field of hematology and immunology.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

Our offer

• A challenging translational project in a multi-disciplinary and enthusiastic international team;
• Temporary position (project duration of 4 years);
• Salary and conditions are conform CAO Sanquin;
• 8.33% end-of-year bonus; i.e. a thirteenth month in case of full-year employment;
• Partial reimbursement of travel costs;
• Pension plan with Pensioenfonds Zorg & Welzijn (PFZW);
• At fulltime employment (36 hours) 201 hours of leave per annum.

Sanquin

The mission of Sanquin is: “Together with the donor we ensure a better life for patients”. Sanquin is a knowledge-driven not-for-profit organization that supplies life-saving products and services, as well as blood transfusion medicine- and immunology- related research. The research is performed by a dedicated staff and it is focused around five medical needs: 1. Anemia, 2. Bleeding and Hemostasis, 3. Cancer, 4. Immune deficiency and Aging, 5. Vascular and Inflammatory diseases. Sanquin’s research portfolio is divided into strategic research (ranging from basic to applied and clinical research) and product- and process development.

Department of Molecular Hematology

You will be based in the Department of Molecular Hematology at Sanquin which harbors several research groups that study hematology, coagulation, and immunology, providing a solid and capable critical mass. In addition, Sanquin provides a lively, internationally oriented, scientific environment with excellent facilities. We also organize weekly scientific meetings, journal clubs and work discussions to gain scientific input and to exchange knowledge.