Researcher Human Genetics - #49741

About Your Role

Within the Translational Neuro-immunology group, you will study the pathophysiology of neuromuscular autoimmune diseases, such as myasthenia gravis. A major focus of the research involves diseases primarily mediated by IgG4 autoantibodies. For one of these diseases, MuSK-MG, high levels of Fab glycans have been identified on autoantibodies. In this project, you will investigate the role these glycans play in this autoimmune disease. The project involves the use of advanced genomic and proteomic techniques, various cellular and animal models, and an existing biobank.

Your Main Responsibilities Include:

• Analyzing glycan, functional, and immunological properties of patient-derived monoclonal autoantibodies, both in vitro using myotube and B-cell models and in vivo using animal models.
• Characterizing the natural Fab glycan composition of autoantibodies from patient serum using mass spectrometry.
• Setting up analyses of BCR sequences of Fab-glycosylated antibodies and coordinating collaborations with technical facilities and clinicians.
• Presenting research findings in international journals and at scientific conferences.
  
  

About Your Workplace

Within the Department of Human Genetics, you will work in the Translational Neuro-immunology group led by dr. Maartje Huijbers. The team currently consists of 5 postdoctoral researchers, 4 PhD candidates, 3 research analysts, and regularly 1 or 2 interns.

Dr. Maartje Huijbers is internationally recognized for her research on MuSK myasthenia gravis and IgG4-mediated autoimmunity. Close collaborations are maintained through consortia, as well as with other experts and industrial partners.

The research group offers an open and collegial working environment where collaboration and knowledge sharing are central. There is also room for informal activities, such as team lunches, annual outings, and game nights. In addition, the group closely collaborates with neurologists treating patients with MuSK myasthenia gravis. Intensive collaboration also takes place with other research groups within the Department of Human Genetics, particularly in the field of neuromuscular diseases.

The Department of Human Genetics is a leading research department where scientific research and clinical application come together. Under the leadership of prof. dr. Silvère van der Maarel, research focuses on the genetic aspects of inherited and acquired diseases. Approximately 220 colleagues from the Netherlands and abroad work within the department. The 24 research groups are divided across four research lines, creating a broad and inspiring research environment.

About You

Within the Translational Neuro-immunology group, you will study the pathophysiology of neuromuscular autoimmune diseases, such as myasthenia gravis. A major focus of the research involves diseases primarily mediated by IgG4 autoantibodies. For one of these diseases, MuSK-MG, high levels of Fab glycans have been identified on autoantibodies. In this project, you will investigate the role these glycans play in this autoimmune disease. The project involves the use of advanced genomic and proteomic techniques, various cellular and animal models, and an existing biobank.

Your Main Responsibilities Include:

• Analyzing glycan, functional, and immunological properties of patient-derived monoclonal autoantibodies, both in vitro using myotube and B-cell models and in vivo using animal models.
• Characterizing the natural Fab glycan composition of autoantibodies from patient serum using mass spectrometry.
• Setting up analyses of BCR sequences of Fab-glycosylated antibodies and coordinating collaborations with technical facilities and clinicians.
• Presenting research findings in international journals and at scientific conferences.
  
  

Our offer

Driven by health; that's our mission. This applies not only to our patients but also to our employees. We strive to provide a safe, inclusive and equitable work environment, with a focus on talent development and connected leadership. In order to be able to continue to learn and develop, we offer internal and external training. You are also entitled to an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), holiday allowance, sports budget, bicycle scheme, home office allowance and an excellent commuting allowance. Furthermore, as an employee of LUMC, you are also affiliated with the ABP pension fund. This means that 70% of your pension premium is paid by LUMC, leaving you with a higher net salary. Nice, right?

See all employment conditions of the LUMC.

What do we represent?

As an academic medical center, LUMC strives to have a workforce that is a good reflection of society. We are committed to the highest quality in health care, education and (international) research, in which diverse perspectives are essential. Sustainability is also a high priority for us: we are committed to a healthy future, not only for people, but also for the planet. In line with these values, we aim to be a creative and inspiring place to work, where everyone feels at home, safe and valued. It's all about who you are and what you bring to contribute, regardless of your background. Together, we work toward a sustainable and inclusive future, both for the people around us and for the world we live in. Together, we are LUMC.

More information

• As a researcher, your salary will be between € 3,724 and € 5,867 gross per month (scale 10, CAO UMC). These figures are based on a full-time position.
• The selection process consists of one interview and, depending on the candidates, possibly a second round. Both interviews will be conducted with the entire Neurimm Lab.
• Applications from employment/recruitment agencies will not be considered.