Do you find translational research into new therapeutics and pathomechanisms of autoimmune diseases in animal models fascinating to work on? Are you the researcher who can unravel the Agonistic Potential of MuSK monoclonal antibodies? And would you like to be part of a young and dynamic team? Then read on!
Responsibilities
As a researcher in Human Genetics, you will be involved in ongoing research projects in the research group of Dr. Maartje Huijbers. The research group studies the pathophysiology of neuromuscular autoimmune diseases such as myasthenia gravis (MG). In addition, there is a special interest in autoimmune diseases primarily mediated by IgG4 autoantibodies. For one of these conditions, MuSK MG monoclonal antibodies from patients have been isolated, facilitating research into the pathophysiology of this disease. Moreover, these antibodies have special properties that could enable therapeutic applications. This project involves setting up new animal models to study these therapeutics and pathophysiology. You will identify antibodies with the most favorable properties in vitro and test their effects in vivo models. You will work closely with a PhD student who is also working on this project. These studies are facilitated by a variety of genomic and proteomic antibody-oriented technologies and various cellular and animal models available in the lab. This position offers the opportunity to grow into a more senior role to develop and supervise the experimental animal work in this research group.
Profile
- You have a PhD in molecular biology, immunology, or a related field.
- Extensive experience working with laboratory animals and with antibody-related techniques such as ELISA, FACS, and immunofluorescence staining, and you have obtained an 'Article 9' qualification.
- Motivation to study autoimmune diseases and antibody properties in animal models.
- Enthusiasm for working in a young and driven team focused on unraveling fundamental and mechanistic research questions.
- Practical experience with commonly used molecular biology tools (molecular cloning, cell cultures, Western blotting, fluorescence microscopy, qPCR, etc.) and animal experiments.
- Flexible attitude, and you are a team player with excellent communication skills in English.
- Interest in semi-independent project supervision and mentoring students.
Offer
Your career at the LUMC
Driven by health; that's our mission. This applies not only to our patients but also to our employees. With Future@Work, we guarantee a pleasant working environment and provide room for development. In order to be able to continue to learn and develop, we offer internal and external training. You are also entitled to an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), holiday allowance, sports budget and bicycle scheme. Furthermore, as an employee of LUMC, you are also affiliated with the ABP pension fund. This means that 70% of your pension premium is paid by LUMC, leaving you with a higher net salary. Nice, right?
- As a researcher Human Genetics, your salary ranges from a minimum of €3,493 to a maximum of €5,504 (scale 10, CAO UMC). These figures are based on full-time employment.
- Your contract will be for a one-year term with the possibility of extension.
Other information
Your workplace
The Department of Human Genetics is a broadly oriented research department, led by Professor Silvère van der Maarel, with a focus on the (epi)genomic contribution to monogenic, multifactorial and acquired diseases, and the translation into clinical relevance. The department consists of 22 research units, embedded in four overarching research lines. Currently, the department currently has about 220 (inter)national employees, ranging from professors, students and research technicians to researchers and PhD students. You will work in the Translational Neuroimmunology lab lead by Dr. Maartje G. Huijbers.
• Please provide the names and contact details of two references when submitting your application.
• Applications from employment/recruitment agencies will not be considered.
Dr. Maartje Huijbers
associate professor, department Human Genetics
m.g.m.huijbers@lumc.nl
+31 71 526 94 84
