PhD nanoparticle-based regenerative therapy via isolated heart perfusion

Dit ga je doen

The PhD student position is part of NanoPLNCARE, a TKI-UMCU-funded program, in collaboration with PLaN Therapeutics. Our objective in this project is to develop a nanoparticle-based strategy delivered via isolated heart perfusion and targeting the repair of a Phospholamban (PLN) mutation, which can cause severe heart failure. First, we will explore the efficiency of viral and/or LNP-based strategies delivered in isolated heart (ex situ) perfusion systems within preclinical models. Subsequently, the optimal strategy will be tested in a PLN-model and translated into a more clinically relevant in-situ approach.

Alongside qualified technicians and other PhD students in the team, you will work on the preclinical testing of the gene therapy approaches using ex situ perfusion and heart failure models. You will write a PhD thesis (based on scientific publications) and take courses at the Graduate school of Life Sciences. Please include the following in your application: a motivation letter explaining your interest in the position, a Curriculum Vitae and when applicable an overview of past and current research and collaboration activities.

Hier ga je werken

The NanoPLNCARE program was recently funded with the aim to establishing a regenerative therapy for heart failure caused by a Phospholamban mutation. In our department, we are focused on further development of nanoparticle technology as a delivery strategy of the therapy. At the same time, we further explore the implementation of this therapy in a preclinical platform of isolated heart perfusion. Together, we work at a translational level focusing on bringing the therapy into a clinical setting.

The NanoPLNCARE study team is an interdisciplinary team of motivated scientists and clinicians with diverse expertise. You will become an embedded member of our NanoPLNCARE-team within the Circulatory Health Research Center, and supervised by Prof.dr. Joost Sluijter (Cellular and Translational Cardiology), Dr. Saskia de Jager (ImmunoCardiology), and Dr. Veronique Meijborg (Cardiac Electrophysiology and Heart Perfusion).

Dit neem je mee

We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic candidate with interest in translational medicine, cardiac physiology and experimental (ex vivo/in vivo) models.

• You have a master's degree (or equivalent university degree) in technical medicine, medicine, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline.
• A certification in laboratory animal science (Article 9/FELASA A+B) is a prerequisite.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills are essential, as is the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• You have a meticulous working method.
• You are proactive, responsible, and flexible.
• You enjoy tackling complex research questions, engaging in practical laboratory work, and closely collaborating with fellow team members.

If you are interested in this position, please respond to this vacancy with a motivation letter and your CV (including past experience, list of followed courses and publication record if applicable, and at least two references). This is a temporary appointment for 4 years fulltime. For more information feel free to contact Dr. Veronique Meijborg by e-mail.

We will select candidates for an interview with our team based on their motivation letter and CV. Following this interview we will select one candidate and inform you accordingly.

We look forward to reading your motivation letter and CV!

Dit bieden we jou

• A salary between €3017 and €3824 gross per month (salary scale OIO), based on full-time employment (36 hours).
• Salary increase of 3% from July 2025, according to the collective labor agreement (cao).
• 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, by bike or by car? You will then receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to a max. of 40 km one way).
• Possibilities to develop yourself personally and professionally.
• The option to select additional employment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such as purchasing a bicycle and memberships.