PhD in Therapeutic Genome Editing for Leukodystrophies

Amsterdam UMC; Netherlands; On-site; EUR 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Amsterdam UMC seeks a motivated candidate to join POLARIS, a European MSCA Doctoral Network, for a PhD project focused on leukodystrophy genome editing. The selected candidate will work under supervision at UZH with secondments to Amsterdam UMC, contributing to preclinical therapeutic development and translational research in an international, interdisciplinary setting.

The role requires a Master’s degree in life sciences, experience in genome editing and delivery methods, and a strong interest

Qualifications

• Master's degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, genetics, bioengineering or related field.
• Experience in molecular biology, genome editing, nucleic-acid delivery, mammalian cell culture or hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
• Experience with CRISPR-based editing or sequencing analysis is advantageous.
• Experience with lipid nanoparticles or viral-vector delivery is advantageous.
• Experience with animal models and robust experimental design is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop gene-editing strategies for VWM and MLD, including precise gene correction and whole-gene insertion.
• Develop targeted delivery approaches using lipid nanoparticles to reach relevant cells in the CNS and hematopoietic system.
• Evaluate editing efficacy, durability, and safety in cellular and preclinical models.
• Assess safety risks, including off-target considerations and long-term tolerability.
• Collaborate across research environments and participate in planned secondments with POLARIS partners.

Skills

Genome editing

Mammalian cell culture

CRISPR editing

Delivery systems

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Master's degree in molecular biology or related field

Experience in biotechnology or biomedical sciences

Tools

CRISPR tools

Genome editing platforms

Job description

Amsterdam UMC seeks a motivated candidate to join POLARIS, a European MSCA Doctoral Network, for a PhD project focused on leukodystrophy genome editing. The selected candidate will work under supervision at UZH with secondments to Amsterdam UMC, contributing to preclinical therapeutic development and translational research in an international, interdisciplinary setting.

The role requires a Master’s degree in life sciences, experience in genome editing and delivery methods, and a strong interest