Luijsterburg lab

Transcription and DNA repair

Open positions

Postdoc in transcription and DNA replication

Are you fascinated by how the human genome works? We are looking for a postdoc to unravel molecular mechanisms at the intersection of gene transcription and DNA replication in human cells.

Transcription and replication are essential cellular processes that maintain cell identity and ensure the faithful transmission of genetic information. Since transcription and replication share the same template DNA, their coexistence in the genome must be tightly coordinated to prevent harmful conflicts.

Research in the Luijsterburg lab focuses on understanding how cells deal with obstacles during gene transcription (Van der Weegen et al., 2021, Nat Cell Biol; Van der Heuvel et al., Nat Comms, 2021). Through genome-wide CRISPR screens, we have uncovered new pathways involved in enabling cells to fine-tune the coordination of gene transcription and DNA replication to minimize transcription-replication collision and ensure genome integrity.

In the current project, funded by an NWO-VICI grant, you will dissect these pathways using a multidisciplinary combination of genetic, molecular, cell biological, and complementary genomics approaches to unravel new mechanisms at the intersection of gene transcription and DNA replication.

About you

  • You hold a Ph.D. in cell or molecular cell biology.

  • Highly motivated with proven research abilities and an excellent publication record, including at least one first-author publication.

  • Experience in research on transcription or DNA replication is an advantage.

  • Excellent skills in molecular biology and cell biology are essential.

  • Ideally, possess expertise in the following techniques: human cell culture, CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing, immunoprecipitation, genomics methods, and DNA fiber analysis.

  • Organized, accurate, possess excellent communication skills, and able to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a dynamic team.

Apply here
Closes: February 5th, 2024

Research Technician in Transcription and DNA Repair

Are you fascinated by how DNA damage is repaired during gene transcription? We are looking for a research technician to support our research projects.

DNA damage is a major complication during gene transcription. It is essential for cells to overcome this arrest and restore transcription after repair to maintain gene expression.

The transcription-coupled DNA repair (TCR) pathway ensures the efficient removal of transcription-blocking DNA damage from active genes. Research in the Luijsterburg lab is focused on understanding these mechanisms (Van der Weegen et al., Nat Cell Biol, 2021; Van der Heuvel et al., Nat Comms, 2021).

As a research technician, you will be part of an international team, supporting several research projects aimed at functionally dissecting mechanisms in transcription-coupled DNA repair.

About you

  • Bachelor degree in biology and medical laboratory research (HLO), preferably with a specialization in molecular biology.

  • Motivated research technician interested in working in an inspiring scientific environment with PhD students and postdocs.

  • Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques (cloning, PCR, DNA analyses), cell culture techniques (transfections and lentiviral transduction), protein analyses (western blot and immunoprecipitation), and fluorescence microscopy.

  • Keen interest in fundamental science and mechanistic research.

  • Advantageous to have experience with research on DNA repair, chromatin analysis (ChIP), and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing.

  • Organized, accurate, and able to work independently within a dynamic team.

  • Flexible, team-building attitude with excellent communication skills in Dutch and English.

Apply here
Closes: February 5th, 2024