PhD position for the IMBRAIN project

Job description

We are looking for a highly motivated and passionate PhD candidate to work on our new project – IMBRAIN - that will investigate neurodevelopmental deficits in inborn errors of immunity. This is a dynamic and collaborative project that combines patient work with pre-clinical experiments.

An increasing number of studies have shown that the brain and the immune system interact in many ways. This interaction suggests that diseases typically considered to involve primarily one of these systems could also affect the other. In IMBRAIN, we will integrate immunology, neuroscience and psychology to untangle the contributions of these systems in disease states. Specifically, we will investigate the presence of neurodevelopmental deficits in inborn errors of immunity.

In IMBRAIN, we will use a specific disease, called APDS, as our model. This builds up on previous work from us and others suggesting an overlap between APDS and neurodevelopmental conditions. However, the common mechanisms behind this overlap are still lacking. To investigate these mechanisms, we will employ an innovative approach by combining apparently unrelated areas and methods into one single study: in the lab, we will use mouse models and perform molecular and behavioral experiments; in the clinic, we will perform interviews and patient testing.

IMBRAIN integrates not just different areas of knowledge but also different institutes. To complement their work at Erasmus MC, the candidate will have the opportunity to use top of the art techniques and facilities at the UMC and the NIN, benefiting from the extensive network of experts that make this project highly collaborative.

Work environment

This project will be primarily conducted at Erasmus MC, a vibrant medical center where distinct pre-clinical and clinical fields meet under one roof. The candidate will integrate the Department of Neuroscience and the Department of Internal Medicine- Division of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, benefiting from the expertise and supervision on the two fields. A large proportion of the time will be spent at Erasmus MC; however, the candidate is also expected to work with our teams at the UMC and NIN for specific parts of the project.

Qualifications and skills

For this multidisciplinary position, we are looking for a candidate who has:

• A master's degree in neuroscience, immunology or other related biomedical field. Experience with molecular biology techniques is not required but advantageous, as is experience with animal work (i.e. Article 9 or 6).
• Excellent communication skills in English, both in writing and speaking;
• Proficiency in Dutch, required to work with patients;
• Outstanding multi-tasking capacity and organization skills;
• Availability to travel occasionally to other Dutch medical centra.
   

Before you apply please check our conditions for employment.

Terms of employment

In case of an PhD appointment:
You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is €3217,- in the 1st year and increases to €4220,- in the 4th year (scale OIO)

More information

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Ines Serra at i.dasilvaserra@erasmusmc.nl.

If you are excited by the thought of this position and would like to apply, please do so by using the application form on our website.

NOTES

Interested candidates should send 1) an up-to-date CV; 2) a motivation letter (max 1 page) highlighting how their education and experience so far can contribute to this project; 3) contact details of two references. Screening of applications will start after the application deadline.

No agencies please.