Postdoc Position: Systems Biology of Malaria Dormancy

1. Introduction

Are you interested in dissecting the molecular mechanisms that keep malaria parasites in a dormant state and providing knowledge for novel strategies to prevent relapse infections? And do you cherish the power of omics technologies in dissecting the complex interaction between the parasite and its host? If so, then this may be the job for you! 

2. Job description

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will participate in a collaborative ERC-Synergy project  dedicated to understand how malaria parasites stay dormant in the liver and how their reactivation is influenced by the interaction with the host. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to develop novel ideas and work on additional independent projects that align with this research theme.

This project will mainly be executed at the Department of Molecular Biology, including frequent visits at the other two institutes (BPRC, AmsterdamUMC). The research of our team (headed by Dr Richard Bartfai) aims at understanding how molecular mechanisms enable adaptation and support pathogenesis of malaria parasites. Our team has a strong background in the development and integration of innovative (single-cell) multi-omics technologies to understand the biology of these deadly pathogens.

3. Profile

• You hold a PhD in molecular biology, systems biology, parasitology or a related field.
• You have ample experience in systems biology and bioinformatics. Experience with malaria research is a plus, but not strictly required. You have excellent communication and writing skills (in English).
• You possess strong analytical/bioinformatic skills and have a result-oriented attitude.
• You have creative thinking skills and a high degree of independence.
• Experience with any of the following is an advantage: single-cell RNA-sequencing, epigenomics, proteomics, bioinformatics analysis of large datasets, plasmodium (liver stage) biology.

4. We are

The department of Molecular Biology is part of the Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS-Science), which is one of the six research institutes of the Faculty of Science of  Radboud University.

The overarching aim of RIMLS-Science is to decipher molecular mechanisms of disease. Research areas of RIMLS-Science include epigenetics, stem-cell and developmental biology, and computational biology. The central research theme is regulation of gene expression during development, in health and in disease. Important tools used within the institute include next-generation sequencing, mass spectrometry, single-cell and spatial multi-omics and computational analysis, as well as method development. To perform state-of-the-art research, RIMLS-Science operates its own wet lab, omics and computational facilities. This fundamental and applied research in medical biology and molecular life sciences has clear links to more clinically oriented research programmes at departments within the Radboud university medical center. RIMLS-Science currently has about 60 researchers providing a vibrant and international working environment.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of 2 year.
• Your salary within salary scale 10 depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus. 
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20. 

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to Richard Bartfai. In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application.

The first interviews will take place on Monday 17 March. You will preferably start your employment on 1 May 2025.

We can imagine you're curious about our application procedure. It describes what you can expect during the application procedure and how we handle your personal data and internal and external candidates. If you wish to apply for a non-scientific position with a non-EU nationality, please take notice of the following information.