PhD candidate ‘Structure and dynamics of nuclear RNA foci in myotonic dystrophy type 1 and 2 (DC5)’

Job title:

PhD candidate ‘Structure and dynamics of nuclear RNA foci in myotonic dystrophy type 1 and 2 (DC5)’

Company:

Job description

Offer DescriptionThe Doctoral Network, funded under the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions – Doctoral Networks (MSCA-DN) programme, is offering 14 fully funded PhD positions across leading European institutions. Join ENTRY-DM and contribute to the next wave of RNA-based therapeutics for myotonic dystrophy, a field at the cutting edge of precision medicine and molecular therapies. Be part of a transformative research network that will shape the future of rare disease treatment.ENTRY-DM is an ambitious interdisciplinary and intersectoral training programme that will equip the next generation of researchers with the expertise to develop novel oligonucleotide-based therapies for myotonic dystrophy. This programme brings together leading academic institutions, innovative biotech companies, and patient advocacy groups, forming a unique collaborative environment for doctoral training at the intersection of fundamental science, translational medicine, and clinical application.Myotonic dystrophy (DM) is the most common inherited muscular dystrophy in adults. It is a complex multi-systemic disorder, impacting not only skeletal and cardiac muscle but also the nervous system, among others. Despite recent advances in understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms of DM, no effective treatment is currently available. The use of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to counteract the disease-causing mutant RNA has faced delivery challenges and insufficient therapeutic efficacy. The development of clinically viable RNA-targeted therapeutics requires overcoming key scientific and technological hurdles, including poor ASO biodistribution, limited penetration of critical tissues, and the lack of reliable biomarkers to monitor disease progression and treatment response.ENTRY-DM aims to transform the therapeutic landscape for Myotonic dystrophy by training a new generation of creative PhD researchers in a structured, interdisciplinary research programme. The project will focus on three major research objectives:

• Development of innovative disease models and exploring disease mechanisms.
• Optimising ASO-based therapies
• Defining clinical biomarkers for clinical trials.

PhD researchers will investigate genotype-phenotype correlations and RNA dynamics, leveraging cutting-edge genomics, bioinformatics, stem cell research, bioengineering of innovative 3D disease models, medicine chemistry, advanced imaging techniques, as well as neuropsychology approaches and clinical applications, in a truly multidisciplinary project.To achieve these goals, ENTRY-DM has assembled a consortium of leading European research institutions and biotech companies, providing a truly international and intersectoral research environment. The 9 academic and 2 non-academic beneficiaries include renowned universities and research centres in France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, and Poland, complemented by 13 associated partners, including patient organisations and biotech companies. Each PhD candidate will be hosted in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary and international setting, benefiting from inter-sectoral secondments, world-class supervision, and specialised training in advanced research techniques, innovation, and career development.As a PhD candidate you will write scientific publications, resulting in a thesis. You will present your research at local, national, and international meetings, work collaboratively with other PhD candidates and scientists, and engage in research in a stimulating environment, including travel to other European institutes.Where to apply WebsiteRequirementsSpecific RequirementsWe are looking for a motivated and ambitious PhD candidate with a strong interest in RNA therapeutics and microscopic imaging. The ideal candidate will have a passion for molecular and cellular techniques, cell culture, and image analysis. A degree in molecular cell biology or a related field is required, along with practical experience in molecular and cellular techniques and cell culture. Prior experience with microscopy is highly desirable.Candidates with well-developed leadership qualities, strong motivation, and initiative are highly valued. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as a commitment to advancing research, are essential. Effective communication and teamwork abilities are crucial for collaboration within our group. Proficiency in English is mandatory; knowledge of or willingness to learn Dutch is a plus.Responsibilities include developing and standardizing iPSC-based cell models and microscopic assays for relevant disease readouts.Doctoral candidates will spend time on secondment during their 36 month employment contracts. Anticipated secondments for this position are:

• Universitat de Valencia, Ruben Artero (Valencia, Spain). Use of antagomirs to upregulate MBNL protein expression and study of effects on foci dynamics.
• Centre d’Etudes des Cellules Souches, Sandrine Baghdoyan, (Evry, France). hiPSC differentiation protocols into 2D and 3D relevant disease models.

Additional InformationBenefitsStarting date is 1 September 2025. At Radboud university medical center, you build on your future. We are committed to providing the best care, education, and research. And we are true to our word, because we help you develop and seize opportunities and give you the room to grow. As an employer, we believe that employees should feel vital and happy at work in all stages of life. We are also committed to creating a healthy and safe working environment. Our employment conditions contribute to that. What we offer:

• Upon commencement of employment, you will start at scale 10A, step 0 (€ 3.017 based on a full-time appointment). Over a maximum period of 4 years, you will progress to scale 10A, step 3 (€3.824 based on a full-time appointment). You will also receive an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and a 47% to 72% bonus for working unsocial hours.
• From 1 July 2025 an increase in salary with 3%.
• 176 vacation hours per year based on a 36-hour working week.

Selection processAny questions? Or wondering what it is like to work at Radboudumc? Then email to , Associate Professor. Use the Apply button to submit your application.Application procedure
Interested candidates should upload:

• A detailed CV (maximum two pages), specifying educational background (name of university/universities, year degree(s) obtained, title(s) of degree(s)), qualifications, work experience, skills, research interests, list of publications (if any) and the names and contact details of two referees.
• A motivation letter (maximum two pages), describing the candidate’s interest in the network, previous research experience, and current research interest outlining the fit to the desired PhD Project.
• If you are planning to apply to more than one position in the network, please limit your applications to three positions maximum (from DC1 to DC14) and please provide a separate document detailing which positions you have applied for.
• Copy of passport or National Identify Card.
• Copies of academic certificates (BSc, MSc, and any other relevant diplomas), translated into English, including expected final grade and date. Proof of English proficiency, demonstrated by IELTS, TOEFL, or a university certification confirming that the degree or MSc thesis was conducted in English.
• Two recommendation letters (maximum 1 page each). Only documents in English will be accepted.

Applications failing to include the requested documentation, who do not indicate the preferred projects or do not meet the eligibility criteria, will not be considered.Additional commentsAny questions? Or wondering what it is like to work at Radboudumc? Then email to , Associate Professor. Use the Apply button to submit your application.Application procedure
Interested candidates should upload:

• A detailed CV (maximum two pages), specifying educational background (name of university/universities, year degree(s) obtained, title(s) of degree(s)), qualifications, work experience, skills, research interests, list of publications (if any) and the names and contact details of two referees.
• A motivation letter (maximum two pages), describing the candidate’s interest in the network, previous research experience, and current research interest outlining the fit to the desired PhD Project.
• If you are planning to apply to more than one position in the network, please limit your applications to three positions maximum (from DC1 to DC14) and please provide a separate document detailing which positions you have applied for.
• Copy of passport or National Identify Card.
• Copies of academic certificates (BSc, MSc, and any other relevant diplomas), translated into English, including expected final grade and date. Proof of English proficiency, demonstrated by IELTS, TOEFL, or a university certification confirming that the degree or MSc thesis was conducted in English.
• Two recommendation letters (maximum 1 page each). Only documents in English will be accepted.

Applications failing to include the requested documentation, who do not indicate the preferred projects or do not meet the eligibility criteria, will not be considered. Website for additional job detailsWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Radboudumc Country Netherlands City Nijmegen Postal Code 6525 GA Street Geert Grooteplein-Zuid 10 GeofieldContact CityNijmegen WebsiteStreetGeert Grooteplein-Zuid 10 Postal Code6525 GASTATUS: EXPIREDShare this page

Expected salary

Location

Nijmegen, Gelderland

Job date

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 04:14:59 GMT

To help us track our recruitment effort, please indicate in your email/cover letter where (vacanciesineu.com) you saw this job posting.