Summary
Join the Center for Translational Immunology (CTI) at UMC Utrecht for a fully funded, 36-month postdoctoral project. This collaborative research initiative, in partnership with the MS Center ErasMS (Erasmus MC Rotterdam), investigates whether targeting the aminopeptidase ERAP2 can selectively eliminate pathogenic Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)-infected B cells to treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Postdoc Molecular and Translational Immunology, (CTI) Netherlands
Key Position Details
| Feature | Details |
| Designation | Postdoc Researcher (Postdoc onderzoeker) |
| Research Area | Molecular & Translational Immunology, Neuroimmunology, and Human Genetics |
| Location | Utrecht, Netherlands (with close collaboration in Rotterdam) |
| Employment Type | Full-time (36 hours per week) |
| Contract Duration | 36 months (fully funded) |
| Salary Range | €3,724 to €5,867 gross per month (Salary Scale 10, CAO UMC) |
| Benefits | 8.3% Year-end bonus, 8% holiday allowance, ABP pension scheme (~70% employer-funded), and 100% public transport reimbursement |
| Application Deadline | August 21, 2026 |
Research Focus
Almost everyone with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) carries EBV, and EBV-infected B cells are key drivers of the disease. This project aims to determine how the aminopeptidase ERAP2 shapes peptide presentation on these B cells to NK cells and CD8+ T cells. You will investigate whether modulating ERAP2 with small-molecule inhibitors can restore immune-mediated clearance of pathogenic B cells.
Eligibility & Qualifications
The ideal candidate is a highly motivated, independent researcher who meets the following criteria:
- Required Degree: PhD in Molecular Immunology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a closely related discipline.
- Key Experience (highly valued in one or more areas):
- Cell line editing (CRISPR-KO and knock-in base editing).
- NK and cytotoxic T cell co-culture assays.
- Single-cell transcriptomics and HLA-immunopeptidomics.
- Working knowledge of population genetics, haplotypes, and/or GWAS.
- Language Skills: Proficient in English (written and spoken).
- Soft Skills: Excellent organizational and communication skills, with a strong enthusiasm for multi-site, collaborative projects.
Job Description (What You Will Do)
As a Postdoc Researcher, you will:
- Build disease-relevant cellular models of EBV-infected B cells and modulate ERAP2 activity.
- Utilize state-of-the-art techniques such as CRISPR-KO/knock-in editing, single-cell transcriptomics, HLA-immunopeptidomics, and immunological co-culture assays.
- Identify how ERAP2 variants and small-molecule modulators alter the HLA-peptidome and affect recognition/cytotoxicity by NK and CD8+ T cells.
- Integrate population genetics and MS-associated risk variants to link functional mechanisms directly to patient disease profiles.
- Collaborate closely across a broad scientific network, including Dr. Jonas Kuiper’s group (UMC Utrecht), Dr. Marvin van Luijn & Dr. Joost Smolders (Erasmus MC, Rotterdam), and international experts in Rome and Vienna.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please prepare and submit the following documents in English:
- Motivation Letter: A brief (maximum 1 A4 page) explanation of your interest in this project.
- Curriculum Vitae: Including the date of your PhD defense, previous/current academic positions, a complete list of publications, a detailed list of laboratory skills, and other relevant information (grants, awards, student supervision, etc.).
- References: Contact details of at least 2 references (preferably current or former academic supervisors).
Ready to apply? Click the direct application link on the official job page: Solliciteer direct / Apply Now.
Last Date to Apply
- August 21, 2026
