Postdoc Position: Systems Biology of Host-Pathogen Interaction

Is it your ambition to gain fundamental insights into biology, and infection biology in particular, and provide knowledge for the development of novel intervention strategies? And do you cherish the power of integrative omics technologies in dissecting complex biological processes? If so, then this may be the job for you!

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will contribute to a highly collaborative ERC-Synergy project with the ambitious goal to crack a hundred-year-old mystery and a major medical challenge: how malaria parasites stay dormant in the liver and how they ‘decide’ to reactivate themselves, causing relapse infections. To answer this question we will combine a unique relapse infection model with state-of-the-art omics, gene editing and imaging technologies in a highly collaborative setting. We need your expertise in applying and integrating various omics approaches (single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics) to identify host factors enabling dormancy of the parasite or influence their reactivation. Furthermore, we provide a highly conducive environment for you to thrive and to develop novel ideas and work on additional independent projects that align with this research theme.

This project will be mainly carried out at the Department of Molecular Biology, providing in-house omics and bioinformatic facilities and a collaborative, international environment. Furthermore, the project will require frequent visits to the collaborating institutes (BPRC, Amsterdam UMC). The Integrative Parasitology Group (headed by Dr Richard Bartfai) has made seminal contributions to our understanding of how molecular mechanisms enable adaptation and pathogenesis of malaria parasites. Our team takes pride in developing and integrating innovative (single-cell) multi-omics technologies to understand the biology of these deadly pathogens. Furthermore, we are actively improving in vitro and in vivo models for more accurate understanding of the development of the parasite in the liver and its interaction with the host.

Profile

• You hold a PhD in molecular or systems biology/parasitology/hepatology, or a related field.
• You possess strong analytical skills and have experience with generation and bioinformatic analysis of omics data.
• You have excellent communication and writing skills (in English).
• You have a high degree of independence and can effectively collaborate with others.
• You have a strong goal-oriented attitude.
• It would be advantageous if you have experience with any of the following: malaria liver-stage biology, host-pathogen interaction, single-cell RNA-sequencing, epigenomics, proteomics, data integration, modelling, hepatic models.

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 at 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.

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. 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.

We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of 2 years, with a possibility for extension.
• 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.
• We offer Dual Career Coaching. The Dual Career Coaching assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands.
• 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.

You have not yet given permission to place the required cookies. Accept the required cookies to view this content.

Dr R.C. Bartfai (Richard) richard.bartfai [at] ru.nl