Job Description

Post Doctoral Scientist in Histone Ubiquitination and Genome Integrity
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Description: The Department of Molecular Genetics, is looking for a fulltime Post Doctoral Scientist to join the research focused on the molecular mechanisms and the enzymes involved in (de)ubiquitination of histone proteins and on how deregulation of this process influences genome stability and tumorigenesis.

We have recently identified USP3 (Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 3) as a major deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) for histone H2A and H2B. Our results implicate USP3 and mono-ubiquitinated H2A (uH2A) in normal S-phase progression and in the response to ionizing radiation (Nicassio et al., 2007). In addition to DNA damage signalling, uH2A plays an important role in transcriptional repression by the Polycomb group proteins, which are frequently deregulated in human cancer. The focus of this project is to study how USP3 participates in the DNA damage response and how this relates to cancer biology. To this end, we are using a multi-disciplinary experimental approach, involving proteomics and whole genome techniques (such as gene expression profiles and DamID) combined with in vitro cellular studies and with the generation of in vivo mouse models. In addition, we are employing a proteomic approach aimed to identify novel players in chromatin regulation and in the DNA damage response.

Qualifications: Highly motivated candidates with a PhD in Molecular/Cellular Biology, or Biochemistry are encouraged to apply. Expertise in mouse biology using both in vivo and in vitro approaches is highly desirable.

Salary Details: The employment agreement will be for a period of 3 years. The salary will be based on previous experience and will be in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Hospitals.

Application Details: Please send your written application (including your resume, a statement of your research interests and the contact information of three referees) either via e-mail directly to the Cancer Institute (click here) or to Dr. Elisabetta Citterio (using the contact link below) or via post to:

Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek hospital,
Personnel Department,
Plesmanlaan 121,
1066 CX Amsterdam,
The Netherlands

Closing Date: Check with institute