Utrecht University and its Medical Center house well over 6000 researchers and consistently delivers top-notch research in biology and medicine, evident from a solid ranking among the absolute top academic centers in Europe. The UMCU is one of the leading centers for Cancer research in the Netherlands, well-renowned for its capacity to translate fundamental breakthroughs in oncology research to experimental treatment of patients.

The Center for Molecular Medicine houses experts and state-of-the-art facilities for a broad range of techniques, including genomics (next-generation DNA sequencing, metabolomics, proteomics), cell culturing (iPS cells, organoids), microscopy (live cell imaging, electron microscopy) and bioinformatics (high-performance computing).

Peter de Keizer is associate professor in "Senescence in Cancer and Aging". His research has been highlighted in numerous national and international media items. His aim is to unravel the molecular mechanisms that cause cells to become senescent and to identify how these cells drive aging and age-related diseases. The role of senescence in late-stage therapy-resistant cancer is a major component of this research. The research has a strong translational component and a spearpoint of the group is to develop methods to target the deleterious effects of senescent and senescent-like cancer cells, for instance by eliminating them altogether.

This 3-year postdoctoral fellowship is focused on molecular mechanisms in ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) - especially involving mouse models and iPSC-derived co-culture systems. Applicants interested in this project should meet the following requirements:

• You have recently completed your PhD in a biological or biomedical discipline, or will do so soon.
• 5+ years background in molecular and cellular biology. A background in neuroscience or neurodegeneration is a strong preference.
• An understanding of neurology-related biology and genetics (e.g., with ALS-markers as SOD1, C9orf72, TDP-43, FUS), where hands-on experience with associated model systems is much preferred.
• Willingness to work with animal models, including support with mouse colony management and (basic) genotyping, behavioral assays (e.g., rotarod, grip strength, gait analysis). Experience in this area is a plus.
• Experience with 2D cell culture, preferably iPSC systems and a willingness to invest considerable time and effort into optimization of 3D coculture systems and Air-Liquid Interface cultures.
• Experience with -omics is preferred.
• Experience with tissue collection and processing of tissues, including histology and immunohistochemistry is preferred.
• A track record of scientific publications or publications in late-stage review.
• Willingness to participate in scientific writing (manuscripts, reports, grants) for additional project funding.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, and willing to supervise other labmembers where needed (Technicians, PhD/MSc students).
• Willingness to co-organize and actively active participate in physical and online meetings and conferences.
• Ensuring compliance with legal requirements as reviewed by a competent in-house and/or external legal counsel for laboratory work and scientific communication.
• Use best efforts to secure at lease one top-tier publication at the end of the project.
• Maintaining confidentiality on all internal organizational affairs.

• A salary between € 3.598,- and € 5.669, gross per month (salary scale 10), based on full-time employment (36 hours). 
• Year-end bonus of 8.3% and holiday allowance of 8%. 
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 70% of the monthly contribution. 
• 100% public transport reimbursement. Are you coming on foot, by bike or by car? You will then receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to a max. of 40 km one way). 
• Possibilities to develop yourself personally and professionally. 
• The option to select additional employment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such as purchasing a bicycle and memberships.