Postdoctoral researcher in genome stability and neurotoxicity

Job description

Chemotherapy has greatly improved cancer survival, but many patients experience severe neurological side effects during or after treatment. These include peripheral neuropathy, causing numbness or pain in hands and feet, as well as cognitive problems often referred to as “chemobrain”, which can affect memory. These complications can persist long after treatment has ended, severely affecting quality of life and, in some cases, forcing dose reduction or therapy stop. Currently, there are no effective treatments to prevent these severe side effects.

In this KWF-funded project, we investigate how chemotherapy-induced DNA damage disrupts gene transcription in nerve cells and how this contributes to neurotoxicity. This project is a close collaboration between the labs of Jurgen Marteijn, Debbie van den Berg and Femke de Vrij, combining expertise in DNA damage and transcription stress with advanced human neuronal differentiation models. Using state-of-the-art neuronal differentiation models, live-cell imaging, DNA repair and functional neuronal assays, and genome-wide CRISPR screening, we aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity and identify novel targets for therapeutic intervention. Ultimately, this work aims to contribute to new strategies that improve the long-term quality of life of cancer survivors.

Work environment

This KWF-funded project is a close collaboration between the labs of Jurgen Marteijn (Molecular Genetics, Genome Stability group ) and Debbie van den Berg (Developmental Neurobiology group), combining expertise in DNA damage and transcription stress (van Sluis et al., 2026, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology) with advanced human neuronal differentiation models and functional neurobiology. Within this project, two postdoctoral researchers will be appointed for a period of three years, each with a complementary focus. This vacancy concerns the position in the lab of Jurgen Marteijn, mostly focusing on mechanisms of DNA damage-induced transcription stress and Transcription-Coupled Repair in neurons. 

The project offers a unique interdisciplinary environment at the interface of genome stability and neurobiology, using state-of-the-art approaches including live-cell imaging, functional genomics, CRISPR screening in stem cell-derived neuronal systems. The labs work in a highly collaborative manner and are internationally recognized for their research on DNA damage responses, transcription stress, and neuronal biology. We offer a dynamic, challenging, and supportive research environment with excellent opportunities for scientific training, collaboration, and career development.

The Departments of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology at Erasmus MC are embedded in a dynamic and internationally competitive biomedical research environment comprising more than 40 research groups. The main language within the departments is English, creating a highly international and collaborative atmosphere.

The Erasmus MC stands for a healthy population and excellence in healthcare. By conducting groundbreaking work, we aim to push boundaries through leading the way in research, education and healthcare to improve and renew the healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow. To stimulate research, the Erasmus MC provides access to the latest equipment and techniques in a state-of-the-art environment, including core facilities such as the Genomics, Imaging, and iPSC facilities.

Qualifications and skills

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate for a collaborative setting. This postdoctoral researcher will primarily focus on DNA damage-induced transcription stress and DNA repair mechanisms in neurons. Being able to present a certificate of good conduct, valid proof of identity and diplomas are conditions for the appointment.

• You have a PhD degree in Biomedical or Life Sciences, Neuroscience or a related field.
• You posess demonstrable skills in one of the following fields: ‘live cell imaging', ‘genome stability' or 'iPS culture and neural differentiation'.
• You have excellent communication skills, both spoken and written in English.

Before you apply please check our conditions for employment.

Terms of employment

• You will receive a temporary position for 3 years. The maximum gross monthly salary is € 5669,- (scale 10). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).
• A salary increase of 3,5% from July 2026, according to the collective labor agreement (cao).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and a personal travel allowance.
• An International Office that supports you in preparing for you arrival and stay.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as an in-house physiotherapist and bicycle repair service. And there is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work. 

More information

For more information about this position, please contact prof.dr. Jurgen Marteijn (j.marteijn@erasmusmc.nl). We aim to start this project on a short notice. For queries regarding your application, please contact Recruiter Tom Pleij (t.pleij@erasmusmc.nl).

If you are excited about this position and would like to apply, please submit your application including a CV, motivation letter, and contact details of at least two references before June 30th.

No agencies please.