Postdoc Position: Systems Biology of Malaria Dormancy

Are you interested in dissecting the molecular mechanisms that keep malaria parasites in a dormant state and providing knowledge for novel strategies to prevent relapse infections? And do you cherish the power of omics technologies in dissecting the complex interaction between the parasite and its host? If so, then this may be the job for you!

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will participate in a collaborative ERC-Synergy project dedicated to understand how malaria parasites stay dormant in the liver and how their reactivation is influenced by the interaction with the host. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to develop novel ideas and work on additional independent projects that align with this research theme.

This project will mainly be executed at the Department of Molecular Biology, including frequent visits at the other two institutes (BPRC, AmsterdamUMC). The research of our team (headed by Dr Richard Bartfai) aims at understanding how molecular mechanisms enable adaptation and support pathogenesis of malaria parasites. Our team has a strong background in the development and integration of innovative (single-cell) multi-omics technologies to understand the biology of these deadly pathogens.

Profile

• You hold a PhD in molecular biology, systems biology, parasitology or a related field.
• You have ample experience in systems biology and bioinformatics. Experience with malaria research is a plus, but not strictly required. You have excellent communication and writing skills (in English).
• You possess strong analytical/bioinformatic skills and have a result-oriented attitude.
• You have creative thinking skills and a high degree of independence.
• Experience with any of the following is an advantage: single-cell RNA-sequencing, epigenomics, proteomics, bioinformatics analysis of large datasets, plasmodium (liver stage) biology.

We are

The department of Molecular Biology is part of the Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS-Science), which is one of the six research institutes of the Faculty of Science of Radboud University.

The overarching aim of RIMLS-Science is to decipher molecular mechanisms of disease. Research areas of RIMLS-Science include epigenetics, stem-cell and developmental biology, and computational biology. The central research theme is regulation of gene expression during development, in health and in disease. Important tools used within the institute include next-generation sequencing, mass spectrometry, single-cell and spatial multi-omics and computational analysis, as well as method development. To perform state-of-the-art research, RIMLS-Science operates its own wet lab, omics and computational facilities. This fundamental and applied research in medical biology and molecular life sciences has clear links to more clinically oriented research programmes at departments within the Radboud university medical center. RIMLS-Science currently has about 60 researchers providing a vibrant and international working environment.

Radboud University

At Radboud University, we aim to make an impact through our work. We achieve this by conducting groundbreaking research, providing high-quality education, offering excellent support, and fostering collaborations within and outside the university. In doing so, we contribute indispensably to a healthy, free world with equal opportunities for all. To accomplish this, we need even more colleagues who, based on their expertise, are willing to search for answers. We advocate for an inclusive community and welcome employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Will you also contribute to making the world a little better? You have a part to play.

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science (FNWI), part of Radboud University, engages in groundbreaking research and excellent education. In doing so, we push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.

We seek solutions to major societal challenges, such as cybercrime and climate change and work on major scientific challenges, such as those in the quantum world. At the same time, we prepare our students for careers both within and outside the scientific field.

Currently, more than 1,300 colleagues contribute to research and education, some as researchers and lecturers, others as technical and administrative support officers. The faculty has a strong international character with staff from more than 70 countries. Together, we work in an informal, accessible and welcoming environment, with attention and space for personal and professional development for all.

We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of 2 year.
• Your salary within salary scale 10 depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

Additional employment conditions

Work and science require good employment practices. Radboud University's primary and secondary employment conditions reflect this. You can make arrangements for the best possible work-life balance with flexible working hours, various leave arrangements and working from home. You are also able to compose part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, exchange income for extra leave days and receive a reimbursement for your sports membership. In addition, you receive a 34% discount on the sports and cultural activities at Radboud University as an employee. And, of course, we offer a good pension plan. We also give you plenty of room and responsibility to develop your talents and realise your ambitions. Therefore, we provide various training and development schemes.