Postdoc position in cellular longevity and stress response modelled by stem cells from a variety of

Key responsibilities
The fact that neurons and other types of cells in the human body are rarely replaced raises the question of the mechanisms that enable cells to function properly for decades and possibly 100 years or more. The postdoc will be part of a team that investigates a new research direction that connects the efficiency of stress response to cellular and animal lifespan, and analyze candidate genetic mechanisms. The postdoc will participate in the establishment and utilization of induced pluripotent stem cells from understudied mammalian species including great apes and rhino, i.e. an iPSC zoo collection.
The postdoc will produce transgenic iPSCs and mice to investigate the role of mammalian long noncoding RNA genes that are involved in stress-induced complexes that protect cells from protein and DNA damage. The project will deliver answers on the ability of cells to withstand prolonged stress in relation to animal lifespan. The multispecies stem cell approach will open new avenues for evolution and genetics.

The postdoc will use a variety of technologies including cellular reprogramming, next generation sequencing, high throughput microscopy, CRISPR-CAS gene editing, and work in close collaboration with bioinformaticians.

The candidate will be embedded in the research group of Prof.dr. M. Drukker, focused on stem cells technologies in order to create novel models for human disease and drug development.

Requirements:

Selection criteria

• A PhD degree in Biology, Genetics, Biomedical sciences or a related field;
• Expertise in stem cell culture, molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, microscopy, genetic models
• Skills in quantitative image analysis or bioinformatics;
• Strong communication skills in the group and with collaborators;
• Proficiency in English;
• Excellent organisational and planning skills (efficient time management).

Salary Benefits:

Terms and conditions
We offer a full-time, one year term position, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 2 years based on performance. Salary range from € 2960 to € 4670 gross per month (fulltime, pay scale 10, depending on experience), in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).
Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information (https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions), see the website.

Leiden