Head of the Ophthalmogenetics laboratory

The Department of Human Genetics is seeking an exceptional scientific leader to head the Ophthalmogenetics Laboratory, which conducts cutting-edge research into the causes and treatment of hereditary eye diseases. The laboratory comprises approximately 15–20 staff members, including university lecturers, postdoctoral researchers, PhD candidates and highly trained technicians specialising in advanced technologies such as gene editing, cell and animal models, and bioprinting.

As a multidisciplinary department, Human Genetics is committed to fostering strong internal collaboration and maintaining its distinguished international reputation. You will play a pivotal role in strengthening these efforts.

We are looking for a molecular geneticist or cell biologist of international standing, with demonstrable leadership skills and specific expertise in molecular and clinical genetics. Knowledge of ocular biology and experience in hereditary eye disease research are essential. Experience with gene-editing applications—optionally in combination with iPSCs and organoids—is required.

The laboratory benefits from substantial existing funding through ongoing collaborative projects, including the NWO Gravitation programme Lifelong VISION (therapy development for retinal disorders) and the European EGRET-AAA project (glaucoma). The position also provides significant scope to establish and expand independent research lines.

You will collaborate closely with other units within the Department of Human Genetics, with the Ophthalmology Department at Amsterdam UMC, with national and international research centres, and with the Emma Center for Personalized Medicine.

Hereditary eye diseases are diagnosed in approximately 100 children annually in the Netherlands. With rapid advances in technologies such as genome editing and induced pluripotent stem cells, new therapeutic options and potential cures are becoming increasingly feasible. The eye is particularly suitable for gene therapy approaches due to its well-defined structure, accessibility and ability to be imaged in detail before and after treatment. The Ophthalmogenetics Laboratory is recognised as a national leader in gene therapy development, working across a broad spectrum of conditions including retinal disorders, glaucoma, albinism and gyrate atrophy. The laboratory is equipped with extensive cell culture facilities, a bioprinter, and a fully equipped molecular biology laboratory, and has access to centralised facilities for sequencing, genome editing, iPSC technologies and animal studies.

You will be operating at the level of Associate Professor or Full Professor. As Head of the Ophthalmogenetics Laboratory, you will provide strategic and scientific leadership, fostering an inclusive and stimulating research environment. You will have a strong track record as a group leader, with proven ability to build and maintain effective collaborations.

You will have a demonstrable history of securing competitive national and international grant funding and experience in managing both fundamental and translational research programmes. You will contribute to the management structure of the department and be committed to academic teaching. A University Teaching Qualification (BKO) is required or must be obtained within an agreed timeframe.