Postdoctoral Fellow Stem Cell Biology and Gene Therapy

About your role

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will study the mechanisms underlying the self-renewal of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). You will use innovative mouse models and work on the ex vivo expansion of HSCs for clinical applications. The research combines fundamental biology with clinical translation and employs advanced technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, ATAC-seq, CRISPR-Cas, and iPSC models. You will be part of an experienced, international team collaborating to gain in-depth insights into stem cell function and lymphoid differentiation. We apply these insights directly in clinical practice of gene therapy for inherited immune disorders in children

Your key responsibilities include:

• Conducting experiments using modern molecular techniques, including single-cell RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics.
• Analyzing and interpreting data to uncover mechanisms of HSC self-renewal and lymphoid differentiation.
• Developing and applying innovative mouse models for studying HSC function.
• Investigating strategies for the ex vivo expansion of human HSCs for clinical applications.
• Collaborating with international partners and contributing to publications in leading scientific journals.

You will have the opportunity to build on previous research into Wnt3a deficiency in relation to HSC self-renewal and expand these findings using cutting-edge molecular techniques.

About your workplace

The Staal Lab at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) was established as a fundamental research laboratory with a focus on stem cell biology and T cell development and remains at the forefront of these fields. Our work integrates cutting-edge technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, ATAC-seq, CRISPR gene editing, and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models, enabling deep insights into the mechanisms of stem cell function and lymphoid differentiation.

The Staal Lab consists of approximately 25 dedicated researchers, including technicians, PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, assistant professors, and support staff. We are based in the supportive environment of the Department of Immunology at Leiden University Medical Center. Our lab maintains close collaborations with clinical departments and has direct access to core facilities specializing in molecular techniques, imaging, and flow cytometry.

About you

You are a driven and meticulous researcher who thrives in an international and multidisciplinary environment. You possess excellent oral and written communication skills and can clearly convey your ideas, both within the team and in publications. You work independently, yet you are also a team player with a proactive attitude and a critical, analytical mindset.

In addition, you have:

• A completed Ph.D. in molecular biology, stem cell biology, or immunology.
• Proven knowledge and experience with flow cytometry and molecular biology; experience with bioinformatics is a plus.
• Affinity with and/or knowledge of molecular immunology (preferred).

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 postdoc, your salary will be between €3.598 and €5.669 gross per month (scale 10, CAO UMC). These figures are based on a full-time position.
• The procedure consists of two interview rounds. The first interviews will take place on Tuesday, September 9 and Wednesday, September 10. The second round involves a presentation and will take place on Wednesday, September 17 or Thursday, September 18
• Applications from employment/recruitment agencies will not be considered.