PhD candidate in the field of biochemistry

The Faculty of Science Leiden and Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Department of Macromolecular Biochemistry are looking for a PhD candidate, to study molecular mechanism of chaperone proteins.

Work and profile

Protein aggregation is a key driver of human disease including neurodegeneration. In response, cells have evolved elaborate networks of molecular chaperones that combat protein aggregation by stabilising and refolding misfolded proteins, and preventing aggregation. More surprisingly, the Hsp70 chaperone can also actively disassemble existing protein aggregates. The question remains how Hsp70 toggles between these different cellular functions and which of these activities is most important to combat disease.

The student will carry out research leading to a PhD degree using biophysical and biochemistry techniques to characterise the molecular mechanisms of Hsp70 chaperone activity. We will study how Hsp70 co-chaperones enable Hsp70 to perform different functions that impact the misfolding and aggregation of a-synuclein and explore how we may selectively tune these functions to combat protein aggregation in disease.

Selection Criteria

• Master degree in biochemistry, life-science technology or equivalent
• Proven interest in either protein structure and function or the molecular basis of neurodegenerative disease
• Previous experience with either NMR spectroscopy, the biochemical characterization of protein aggregates or fluorescence spectroscopy/microscopy are desirable
• Proficient in English with excellent oral and written communication skills
• Works efficiently both independently and as part of a team of international researchers

Description of organisation and terms of employment

We offer a position for 1 year initially, with a possibility of extension to a full PhD contract upon satisfactory performance. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from € 2.770,- to € 3.539,- gross per month (pay scale P).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information, see the website.

Faculty
The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelors’ and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and over 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

University
Leiden University is one of Europe’s leading international research universities.

Thanks to its committed and inspired employees, the university enjoys a leading role in academic research and education. Leiden also scores very well every year in prominent rankings. This means that, to maintain our position, the bar is set very high. Regardless of the work you do at our university, you are always encouraged to broaden your horizons, develop your talents and reach your full potential. Will you become our newest colleague?

Do you have questions about this position? Please contact Dr Anne Wentink, a.s.wentink@lic.leidenuniv.nl
For more information about the recruitment process please contact I. Bekooy, Management and Office Assistant, bekooy_i@lic.leidenuniv.nl

Please include the following with your application:

• Letter of motivation addressed to Dr. Anne Wentink, including a statement why you are suited for this position
• Curriculum vitae
• Transcripts of bachelor and master curriculum courses, including grades
• Two references, including names, affiliations and email addresses

You can find more information about the faculty of Science at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/about-faculty-of-science. For more information about working at Leiden university please visit https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at.

Are you enthusiastic about this vacancy? We are looking forward to get to know you. You can apply until the 31st of August, 2024 using the application button below. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.