An ambitious EC-funded research initiative on epigenetics advancing towards systems biology

University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands

Description

Background of the project
A substantial number of studies in humans and experimental animals show that maternal under-nutrition during pregnancy increases the susceptibility to develop obesity and metabolic diseases at adult age (fetal or metabolic PROGRAMMING).
In Western countries maternal undernutrition is currently not a relevant health problem. However, preeclampsia is a major health problem in the Western world affecting 5-10% of all pregnancies. Preeclampsia is often associated with placental dysfunction and therefore intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
This project (funded by ZonMW) aims to characterize the consequences of placental dysfunction for the offspring on the molecular level, namely from epigenetic changes (DNA methylation) to their effects on gene expression and physiology.
We postulate that preeclampsia-related IUGR leads to long-term adaptations in the pigenome of the intestine, the liver, and in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, comparable to the effects observed in undernourished mothers. These epigenetic changes will affect nutrient uptake by the intestine, handling of metabolites in the liver and, the regulation of satiety via the brain. Taken together, we hypothesize that epigenetic changes play a central role in the long-term health outcome for the affected child after preeclampsia.

Qualifications

Job description
The successful candidates will establish and characterize mouse model for fetal programming. Characterization will include gene expression assays and epigenetic analysis, i.e., histone and DNA methylation assays. Ultimately, the findings from mouse experiments will be tested in material from human cohorts.
Animal experimentation and molecular genetics form an essential part of this project.

What do we need
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a background in molecular biology or biochemistry and interest in molecular physiology and epigenetic research.
The UMCG has a preventive Hepatitis B policy. You may be required to build up sufficient protection against Hepatitis B before you can be appointed. Vaccination is provided by the UMCG if necessary.

Salary

What do we offer
The salary for a full-time appointment is € 2.141,- gross per month in the first year and will increase to € 2.743,- gross per month in the fourth year. We offer a temporary full time appointment as a PhD student of one year with the perspective of prolongation with another three years.
The conditions of employment comply with the Collective Labour Agreement for Medical Centres (CAO-UMC).

Application details

For more information about this vacancy you may contact:
dr. Torsten Plösch, universitair docent, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (please do not use for applications).

PLEASE APPLY AT OUR WEBSITE HERE

Starting date: 27th May 2013
Closing date: 10th June 2013