Biomarkers for FTD subtype discrimination
Frontotemporal dementia is the second form of dementia in relatively young patients. Due to the young onset, it has devastating effects on the patient and her/his environment. The disease is neuropathologically characterised by two different proteins, TDP-43 and Tau. Besides in genetically affected patients, the two subtypes cannot be discriminated at diagnosis. We recently made a very unexpected finding of a novel fluid biomarker for TDP-43 positivity, which appeared to be very robustly elevated in both genetically and sporadically affected patients baring TDP-43 pathology.
Would you like to know more about the different phases within the PhD trajectory? You can read more about this on this page.
The aim of this PhD project is to understand how this novel biomarker relates to the TDP-43 pathology and other relevant pathologies. You will perform neuropathological studies and cell culture models, next to biomarker studies in body fluids of human observational cohorts and trials. You will therefore work in a multidisciplinary team: in different departments (Neurochemistry, Pathology, Human Genetics), and with international collaborators.
As a PhD student, you have:
- a MSc in Neuroscience;
- Proven affinity with laboratory work;
- Affinity with biological questions;
- Skills to work in a team environment;
- Responsibilty for your own work planning and result interpretation;
- Excellent english writing skills.
- 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: € 3.017 to € 3.824 gross based on full-time employment (depending on education and experience) and a year-end bonus of 8.3%. Calculate your net salary here;
- Holiday hours: 190,4 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.
You will be working at both the Neurochemistry Laboratory of the AUMC, location VUmc. The mission of the Neurochemistry laboratory is to improve patient care for neurological disorders by developing biomarkers in body fluids. VUmc.com - Neurochemistry Laboratory
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.
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 Prof.C.Teunissen, via c.teunissen@amsterdamumc.nl.
For more information about the application procedure, please contact Kim Hooijmans, Recruitment advisor, via k.i.m.hooijmans@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.