Are you fascinated by how DNA damage is repaired in our genome? If so, keep reading.

As a research technician you will support several research projects in the group of Dr. Martijn S. Luijsterburg funded by an NWO-VIDI grant. The research in the Luijsterburg group focusses on understanding the mechanisms of human DNA repair by the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway and its implications for human health. Inherited defects in this DNA repair system cause human syndromes associated with severe neurodegeneration or increased cancer risk. The group recently performed genome-wide CRISPR screens and proteomic analyses, which led to the identification of new factors involved in DNA repair. You will be part of a team that will functionally dissect the role of these new factors in DNA repair. 

You are a motivated research technician who is interested in working in an inspiring scientific environment. You hold a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Medical Laboratory Research (HLO), preferably with a specialisation in molecular biology. You have hands on experience with molecular biology techniques (cloning, PCR, DNA analyses), cell culture techniques (transfections and lentiviral transduction), protein analyses (Western blot and immunoprecipitation) and fluorescence microscopy. Having experience with research on DNA repair, chromatin analysis (ChIP), and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing will absolutely be an advantage. You are organized, accurate and able to work independently within a dynamic team. You have a flexible, team-building attitude and possess excellent communication skills in Dutch and English.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

You will be employed on the basis of a 36-hour week. Appointment is for 1 year, possibly to be extended for a second year. The salary will depend on your qualifications and experience, with a maximum of € 3,099 gross per month based on a full time position (scale 7 of the Collective Labor Agreement for University Hospitals).

LUMC

At the Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), we are continually seeking to improve the quality of healthcare. The LUMC aims for excellence in patient care, research, teaching, training and continuing education.

http://www.lumc.nl/

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 22 research units, embedded in four overarching research themes. You will be part of the research group of Dr. Martijn S. Luijsterburg, which is one of the research laboratories that comprise the Genetic Instability and Cancer cluster. This cluster aims at elucidating the cellular response to different DNA-damaging agents and its relevance for human health, focusing on the mechanisms that underlie DNA repair and mutagenesis. The expertise and technical facilities of these DNA repair research groups are highly complementary, constituting a collaborative environment for cutting-edge research in the DNA repair field. Outstanding facilities for advanced live-cell imaging, genetic screening and interaction proteomics are available. The Luijsterburg group occupies a strong national and international position with collaborations with other academic partners across Europe and in the US and with strong links with patient organisations for DNA repair-deficiency syndromes.