PhD student position to study telomere maintenance in the research group of Jacqueline Jacobs

4 Apr 2024
Job Information

Organisation/Company

The Netherlands Cancer Institute

Research Field

Physics
Other
Medical sciences

Researcher Profile

Recognised Researcher (R2)
First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country

Netherlands

Application Deadline

3 May 2024 - 21:59 (UTC)

Type of Contract

Temporary

Job Status

Not Applicable

Hours Per Week

36.0

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by an EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

The research group of Jacqueline Jacobs at the division of Oncogenomics aims to understand the processes that act to safeguard genome integrity but that, when working inappropriately, cause cells to become dysfunctional or die, or to get derailed and cancerous. More specifically, we aim to identify new factors and molecular mechanisms that are critical in telomere and genome maintenance through appropriate DNA damage responses, DNA replication, and DNA repair.

In this project we seek to achieve an increased mechanistic understanding of telomere maintenance in pediatric cancers, in particular via the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) mechanism. Recent discoveries indicate that ALT is activated by defective DNA replication fork dynamics, which result in DNA breaks and increased recombination at telomeres. Given that ALT has a major impact on the survival of a considerable portion of pediatric cancers, and is not used by normal non-cancerous cells, it represents an attractive target for cancer treatment. However, the lack of comprehensive mechanistic understanding of ALT hampers therapeutic progress related to ALT. Therefore, in this multidisciplinary project, funded by the Children Cancer Free Foundation KIKA, we aim to increase understanding of the factors and molecular mechanisms that control ALT. For this we will follow-up on recent unpublished findings from our lab, that implicate new factors in the regulation of ALT. In addition, we will investigate how ALT regulation by these factors can be exploited in treatment of ALT-positive pediatric cancers.

Requirements
Specific Requirements

We are looking for an ambitious and enthusiastic PhD candidate with a strong commitment to science and solid background in molecular biology and cell biology. The candidate should be creative, highly self-motivated, capable of independent thinking, have a problem-solving attitude and be a very good experimentalist. Good communication skills (oral and written) and ability to work together with others in an international team are essential. Previous experience in the fields of telomere maintenance, DNA replication and/or DNA damage and repair, would be advantageous, but are not an absolute must.

Additional Information
Benefits

We offer a stimulating and interactive research environment, free use of all state-of-the-art facilities, a competitive salary. The gross salary per month can range from € 3.355,- to € 4.073,- (salary PhD scale, according to the Collective Labour Agreement General Hospitals), depending on your experience. In addition, you will receive 8,33% holiday pay and end-of-year bonus (8,33%). The appointment is for a period of four years. You will participate in the educational program of the Oncology Graduate School Amsterdam (OOA) that offers high-quality courses.

Your travel expenses will be reimbursed at € 0,19 per km. Free parking at the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek is also part of the package. Personnel is stimulated to use public transport and bicycle and therefore we offer an interesting arrangement for bikers and/or discount on the NS-business card. 

Selection process

How to apply
Applications should include your CV, a motivation letter, your transcripts and contact information of at least 2 references, and can be submitted via the application button.

The NKI values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment that stimulates the best in each individual. Applications of all individuals are welcomed regardless of age, ancestry, religion, disability, distance from the labor market, sexual orientation or gender identity.

Additional comments

How to apply
For further information visit our website (https://www.nki.nl/research/research-groups/jacqueline-jacobs/ ) or contact Jacqueline Jacobs ([email protected] ). Applications should include your CV, a motivation letter, your transcripts and contact information of at least 2 references, and can be submitted via the application button.

The NKI values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment that stimulates the best in each individual. Applications of all individuals are welcomed regardless of age, ancestry, religion, disability, distance from the labor market, sexual orientation or gender identity.

Website for additional job details

https://www.academictransfer.com/339785/

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

The Netherlands Cancer Institute

Country

Netherlands

City

Amsterdam

Postal Code

1066 CX

Street

Plesmanlaan 121

Geofield

Where to apply

Website

https://www.academictransfer.com/en/339785/phd-student-position-to-study-telome…

Contact

City

Amsterdam

Website

https://www.avl.nl/

Street

Plesmanlaan 121

Postal Code

1066 CX

STATUS: EXPIRED