Our research focus is on mechanisms that resolve pain, with a focus in the communication between immune and nervous systems and mitochondria. In this Vici project we aim to fully understand how mitochondria are regulated in sensory neurons to stop inflammatory pain and through which mechanism macrophages help to facilitate this process to resolve inflammatory pain. You develop (viral) constructs to perturb mitochondrial functioning, perform in vitro assays to assess mitochondrial functions and assess how these affect sensory neuron function in vitro with a broad range of techniques such as imaging, flow cytometry, western blot. You will use human iPSC-derived sensory neurons. You will work on identifying how macrophages communicate with sensory neurons together in a team PostDoc’s and Phd student’s. To validate targets and mechanisms you will assist in the performing in vivo studies to asses mitochondrial function in vivo and pain resolution pathways.

The obtained information will be used to design and develop ways to treat chronic pain.

The laboratory for neuro-immunology of pain is hosted in the Center of Translational Immunology (CTI) at the UMC Utrecht. The group of Eijkelkamp is composed of an international team of researchers that are actively collaborating on projects to better understand chronic pain and develop novel therapeutic strategies to kill pain and inflammation. The CTI is a well-facilitated department with experts in all fields of immunology, and is embedded in the focus area ‘Infection and Immunology’ of the UMC Utrecht. We are structured to facilitate bench-to-bedside research. The CTI, or within the UMCU/UU, we have a state-of-the-art flow cytometry, imaging, mass spectrometry, and RNA sequencing facilities.

We are looking for talented and highly motivated technician with an HBO degree in laboratory sciences, preferably expertise in molecular biology. You have excellent experimental skills and experience in molecular techniques, cell culture (preferable experience with human iPSC-Derived neurons), and flow cytometry. Affinity with neuro-immunology is preferred as well as the willingness and certification to perform animal experiments. You should have good communication skills, be flexible, and be a good team player.

• A salary between € 3064 and € 4340 gross per month (salary scale 7M), based on full-time employment (36 hours).
• Year-end bonus of 8.3% and holiday allowance of 8%.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 70% of the monthly contribution.
• 100% public transport reimbursement. Are you coming on foot, by bike or by car? You will then receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to a max. of 40 km one way).
• Possibilities to develop yourself personally and professionally.
• The option to select additional employment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such as purchasing a bicycle and memberships.