Department

Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systems (BSCS)

Working Enviroment

The research at the Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systems (BSCS) at the UMC Groningen focusses on understanding basic functions and processes of the cell & systems and how they lead to diseases if disturbed. The dept BSCS strives to identify potential mechanisms and targets to prevent or cure disease, and to promote Healthy Aging. The position is also be embedded in the MS Center Noord Nederland (www.mscnn.nl).

Job description

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive, disabling demyelinating, neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system. Current disease-modifying therapies are non-curative and do not reverse progression. Existing experimental MS models lack important aspects of progressive MS pathology and many drugs that showed promise in these preclinical models ultimately failed in clinical trials in humans. To better comprehend the mechanisms underlying MS pathology, novel models are required that more reliable recapitulate the onset and progression of MS. In this project, you will develop novel hiPSC-derived 3D MS-organoids and organotypic slice cultures that are reminiscent of MS lesions. You will exploit the models to identify targets and develop novel therapeutic tools for (progressive) MS, focusing on myelin repair. In addition, in a collaborative project with MS Center Amsterdam (Prof. dr H.E. de Vries), you will create a novel human in vitro blood-brain barrier (BBB) model using vessel on a chip technology. You will use hiPSCs from people with MS and investigate which glia-BBB interactions underly MS pathology. The developed MS models offer the opportunity to maximize predictions of candidate therapeutic molecules and will contribute to a better understanding of MS.

The position is funded by MoveS and Stichting MS Research.

References: PMID: 37833292; PMID: 37340488; PMID: 35366978; PMID: 35090578

Requirements

A junior Postdoc with a PhD degree in molecular cell biology or a related field. We are looking for an enthusiastic, highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher with affinity for neuroscience and a strong scientific drive. Expertise with human iPSCs, organoids and/or organotypic slice cultures is an advantage. Furthermore, you will need a flexible working attitude, team player mentality, good oral and written communication skills in English, and a result-driven and pro-active attitude.
The UMCG has a preventive Hepatitis B policy. The UMCG can provide you with the vaccination, should it be required for your position.
In case of specific profession, a ‘Certificate of Good Conduct is required.

Conditions of employment

1.0 fte junior postdoc position for a temporary contract of 12 months, preferably starting February 1, 2024, with the possibility of extension for 24 months. Salary indication is scale 10, which a maximum salary amount of € 5.292 gross per month depending on your qualifications and experience, based on a full-time employment. In addition, the UMCG will offer you 8% holiday pay and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. The conditions of employment comply with the Collective Labour Agreement for Medical Centres (CAO-UMC).

Additional information

For more information about this vacancy you may contact:

Dr. W.(Wia) Baron telefoonnummer +31 (50) 3616 432
w.baron@umcg.nl
Prof. Dr. B.J.L. (Bart) Eggen telefoonnummer +31 (50) 3616 432
b.j.l.eggen@umcg.nl

Applying for a job

Please use the the digital application form at the bottom of this page - only these will be processed. You can apply until 3 December 2023. Within half an hour after sending the digital application form you will receive an email- confirmation with further information.

Digital application form