In this PhD project, you will delve into the intricate relationship between endothelial cell metabolism and immunomodulation in the context of atherosclerosis. Your research will focus on understanding how alterations in endothelial cell metabolism are linked to their inflammatory phenotype and how these cells act as active immunomodulators in cardiovascular disease. You will explore the role of endothelial immune checkpoint proteins(ICPs) in regulating T-cell activation and macrophage function in atherosclerotic plaques. This innovative approach aims to uncover new insights into the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and identify potential therapeutic target.

As a PhD student, you will conduct cutting-edge research combining wet lab and dry lab techniques in equal measure.

• In the wet lab: you will perform experiments using 3D organ-on-chip models, conduct Seahorse Flux analysis, and carry out immunoblotting and qPCR analysis. You will also work with animal models and prepare samples for metabolomics and RNA-sequencing.
• In the dry lab: you will focus on bioinformatics and data analysis, with a strong emphasis on (single-cell) RNA-seq analysis.

Your main goal will be to uncover novel therapeutic targets by investigating the crosstalk between metabolism-driven inflammatory responses and immunomodulatory properties of endothelial cells. You will also collaborate with the Department of Vascular Medicine to validate our findings in a human cohorts.

• You have a master's degree in a field related to biomedical sciences, (medical) biology, biochemistry, or bioinformatics;
• You have experience in molecular biology, immunology and cardiovascular disease;
• You are willing to learn how to perform transcriptomic data analysis (bulk and single-cell data) and bioinformatics;
• You possess excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken;
• You are an enthusiastic team player with positive social skills;
• Experience with bioinformatics (e.g., in R/Python) is a plus;
• An art.9 or equivalent FELASA diploma is a plus.

• A flying start to your career in scientific research.
• Plenty of room for your drive to shape tomorrow's healthcare.
• Working on large-scale and in-house research, with motivated colleagues from all over the world.
• You will be employed by Amsterdam UMC Research BV.
• A contract for 12 months (extension possible, subject to funding).
• Salary scale OIO: In the first year this is € 3.017 increasing to € 3.824 in the fourth year gross based on full-time employment and a year-end bonus of 8.3%. Calculate your net salary here.
• Holiday hours: 186,4 per year for fulltime and a possibility to save additional hours.
• Pension accrual with BeFrank, a modern, comprehensible and fairly priced pension.
• For >7 km each way, 100% reimbursement for public transport travel costs and, for private transport, €0.18 per km up to a maximum of 40 km each way.
• Do you prefer walking or cycling? Take advantage of our good bike scheme. Moreover, you will receive a reimbursement of €0.18 per km.

Watch this video with more information about joining Amsterdam UMC Research BV.

Amsterdam UMC

You will collaborate with fellow doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, analysts, and clinical researchers conducting patient studies. We encourage active participation in the design and execution of ongoing research projects, with ample room for your own initiatives. Amsterdam UMC offers a position within an enthusiastic team where you can contribute to cutting-edge research in vascular medicine.

You will work in Dr. Kroon's group at the Department of Experimental Vascular Medicine at location AMC. Our department works closely with the Department of Vascular Medicine, with over 70 PhD students collectively working on research in atherosclerosis, lipids, coagulation, diabetes, and microbiome studies. The ultimate goal is to develop new and improved therapies for patients. We foster an open culture with generally accessible collaboration. Moreover, we strive for equal opportunities for everyone, meaning there is space for each individual's culture, background, ideas, and creativity.

You will have the opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment, gaining experience in both wet lab techniques and computational analysis. This unique combination will provide you with a comprehensive skill set highly valued in both academic and industry settings. Regular meetings, journal clubs, and seminars will keep you up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and help you build a strong professional network.

We are committed to supporting your growth as a researcher and will provide opportunities for you to present your work at national and international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and participate in relevant workshops and courses to enhance your skills.

Amsterdam UMC Research BV supports non-profit scientific research. In doing so, we provide researchers with everything they need to excel. Our principal investigators (PIs) and project leaders offer support in the field of project management, finance and human resources. In medical scientific research projects, legal support is also provided.

Watch the video to find out more.

During the publication period, applications will be handled continuously. If the vacancy is filled, it will be closed prematurely.

If you have any questions about this position, please feel free to contact dr. Jeffrey Kroon, via j.kroon@amsterdamumc.nl.

For more information about the application procedure, please contact Chey Edwards, Recruitment advisor, via c.i.edwards@amsterdamumc.nl.

A reference check, screening and hiring test may be part of the procedure. Read here whether that applies to you. If you join us, we ask you for a VOG (Certificate of Good Conduct).

Internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates in case of equal suitability.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.