Senior Postdoc in Stem Cell Biology

About your role

As a senior member of the research team, you will lead your own research projects while working closely with the Principal Investigator and fellow team members. You will supervise PhD candidates, research technicians and students in their day-to-day research activities and actively contribute to a collaborative, supportive and stimulating research environment. Your research will focus on T-cell development in humans and mice, with particular emphasis on the biology of human haematopoietic stem cells. Outstanding performance may provide opportunities to progress towards a more independent academic position, subject to institutional opportunities and available funding.

Your key responsibilities include:

• Supervising and mentoring PhD candidates, research technicians and interns in their daily research activities.
  • Developing and leading research projects on haematopoietic stem cell biology, self-renewal and lymphoid differentiation.
  • Coordinating and performing advanced experimental studies using state-of-the-art molecular and cellular technologies, including single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, CRISPR-Cas genome editing, iPSC models and innovative mouse models.
  • Publishing research findings in leading scientific journals, contributing to grant applications and presenting results at national and international conferences.
  • Developing new research directions together with the Principal Investigator and collaborating with national and international research partners.

About your workplace

The Staal Lab at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) was established as a fundamental research laboratory specialising in stem cell biology and T-cell development and is internationally recognised as a leader in these research fields. Our research employs cutting-edge technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, ATAC-seq, CRISPR/Cas genome editing and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models to gain fundamental insights into the mechanisms underlying stem cell function and lymphoid differentiation.

The StaalLab consists of approximately 25 enthusiastic researchers, including technicians, PhD candidates, (senior) researchers and support staff. We are part of the Department of Immunology at LUMC and collaborate closely with clinical departments. In addition, we have direct access to specialised research facilities for molecular technologies, imaging and flow cytometry.

About you

You are an enthusiastic and collaborative scientist who enjoys combining high-quality research with mentoring junior researchers. You take initiative, share your expertise and actively contribute to an open and inclusive research culture. You are equally comfortable working independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team, and you are motivated to further develop your scientific independence.

In addition, you have:

• A PhD in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology or a related discipline.
  • Several years of postdoctoral research experience.
  • A strong publication record.
  • Experience with, or a strong interest in, writing research and grant proposals.
  • Experience supervising MSc and/or PhD students is considered an advantage.
  • Excellent communication and organisational skills.

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 Senior Postdoc in Stem Cell Biology, your salary will range from €4,987 to €6,825 gross per month (Scale 11, Collective Labour Agreement for University Medical Centres), based on a full-time appointment.
• This is a fixed-term appointment for the duration of the project.
• Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.