Postdoc Position in Pathogenesis of Stem Cell Malignancy
Postdoc Position in Pathogenesis of Stem Cell Malignancy
Utrecht University - Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Utrecht, Netherlands
Stem cells are valuable tools for modelling human and animal diseases, as well as a source of differentiated cells for use in regenerative medicine and drug discovery. An essential prerequisite for using stem cells in medicine is the assurance of genetic stability. We are looking for a postdoc to be involved in research on the pathogenesis of stem cell malignancy.
Your job
The presence of genetic changes, together with their increased growth rates raise concerns related to potential malignancy (cancer) and safety of stem cells for clinical application. The group studies mechanisms of tumorigenesis of human and animal stem cells, and works on the characterisation and validation of in vitro models for studying human and animal diseases. We are looking for a postdoc who is fascinated by stem cell tumorigenicity and safety.
Our research group is embedded in the Regenerative Medicine Utrecht external link collaboration and housed at the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht within the Hubrecht Institute. The project is an continuation of a long existing collaboration with the group of Professor Leendert Looijenga external link at the Princess Máxima Centre for Pediatric Oncology.
Your responsibilities will include planning and conducting molecular biology experiments on cancer stem cells, embryonal carcinoma and human yolk sac tumour development, developing in vitro models relevant to cancer related diseases. Besides that, you will be engaged in:
- conception of new research projects and development of research proposals with new approach technologies (NAMs) as central topic;
- project management in collaboration with third-party funding administrations;
- writing and supervision of international scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals;
- supervision of a highly skilled technician already present in the group;
- presentations at scientific congresses.
The following methods will be (potentially) used:
- (micro)RNA analysis (qRT-PCR, (single cell) RNA sequencing);
- protein analysis (western blot, phospho-kinase arrays, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, immunofluorescence staining, Co-IP);
- chromatin immunoprecipitation (followed by qPCR and sequencing);
- epigenetic analysis (DNA methylation arrays, histone modification analysis);
- 2D/3D culture and manipulation of human (tumor) cell lines;
- tumour tissue analysis (ex vivo culture).
Your qualities
This position is right for you if you:
- have recently completed or you are in the last steps before completing your PhD in a field with strong affinity with stem cell tumourigenicity;
- can work well independently, have new ideas, you are critical but able to connect with other disciplines and larger projects;
- have excellent communication skills;
- have a good command of English, both orally and in writing and you are willing to learn Dutch;
- have a positive (working) attitude and good social skills;
- are energetic, enthusiastic and motivated for the job and you are a team player, and willing to take active part in creating a good safe and inclusive atmosphere in the research group.
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