PostDoc to discover and characterize new inhibitory receptors in autoimmunity

This is an industry funded Post Doc position set for intensive collaboration between the Inhibitory Receptor Lab and an industrial partner.

Blockade of Inhibitory receptors have revolutionized cancer treatment by unleashing immune responses to cancer. The reverse strategy can potentially be used in autoimmunity to suppress unwanted inflammatory responses by engaging inhibitory receptors on immune cells. The first clinical studies show proof-of-concept, but in addition highlight the need to further improve these therapies.
We previously computationally identified ~400 putative inhibitory receptors encoded in the human genome. In collaboration with an industrial partner, we will short-list putative inhibitory receptors for functional characterization. You will perform cellular assays to detail the expression and function of these candidates using CRISPR/Cas9 in primary human cells. Based on these results, we will make a ‘deep dive’ into a select set of candidates on immune cells of controls and patients with autoimmune diseases.

You will be responsible for developing and conducting research at the UMCU, the communication between partners, and reporting to the industrial partner.

You will part of the Inhibitory Receptor Lab that is led by Dr. Michiel van der Vlist and Prof. Linde Meyaard. The Inhibitory Receptor Lab is situated in Center for Translational Immunology in the UMC Utrecht and is part of the Oncode Institute. At the Center for Translational Immunology, approximately 200 people study immune responses in all their facets. We have a state-of-the-art flow cytometry facility, imaging facility and protein facility, and we are well connected to the department Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology.

In the Inhibitory Receptor Lab is a dynamic team that studies immune inhibitory receptors in health and disease. Our basic research line focuses on identification and characterization of inhibitory receptors, their ligands and mechanism of action. We have a strong translational focus to apply our knowledge in the clinic to cure patients. To foster this goal, research in our group covers the complete spectrum from academic basic to translational research, as well as public-private collaborative research.

We strive for a diverse and inclusive working environment where we are kind to the person, but though on the data.

• Intrinsic interest and motivation for early-stage therapeutic development.
• Experience in cell culture and flow cytometry-based assays.
• Experience in primary human cell culture

• Affinity with immunology.
• Experience with assay design and trouble shooting.

• A salary between € 3.724,- and € 5.876,- 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, bybikeor by car? You will then receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to amax.of 40 km one way).
• Possibilities to develop yourself personally and professionally.
• The option to selectadditionalemployment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such aspurchasinga bicycle and memberships.