"Postdoctoral Researcher in Aging Mechanisms and RNA Therapeutics Delivery to the Brain"

What are you going to do?

The position we offer will be embedded within the Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy (GRIP), Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy (PTB, https://www.rug.nl/research/pharmaceutical-technology-and-biopharmacy/).

Researchers at GRIP aim to understand the molecular basis of disease, develop innovative therapeutic strategies, and optimize drug delivery to improve human health. Our teams combine expertise in nanomedicine, RNA biology, organoid models, and the tissue microenvironment to tackle biomedical challenges with translational potential.

The postdoctoral position is part of a collaborative project between the research groups of Dr. Flávia Sousa (https://www.flaviasousasci.com/) and Dr. Marina Trombetta Lima (https://matrixorganoidlab.com/). The project addresses aging-associated mechanisms and the development of RNA therapeutics for the brain. The successful candidate will work at the interface of molecular biology, cell models of the blood–brain barrier, and advanced human in vitro systems such as induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cultures and organoids. A key focus will be on understanding age-related cellular pathways and evaluating delivery nanoplatforms for RNA-based therapies across brain barriers.

The candidate is expected to perform independent experimental research, contribute to scientific publications, and actively engage in collaborative team efforts.

Requirements

We are looking for candidates who meet the following requirements:

• a PhD degree in molecular biology, cell biology, neuroscience, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related discipline
• demonstrated expertise in cell culture, including primary cells and iPSC-derived models
• experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, FACS, immunofluorescence)
• solid knowledge of RNA biology
• a relevant publication record demonstrating ability to publish in international academic journals
• excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken
• ability to work independently as well as in a multidisciplinary team

Additional, highly encouraged qualifications:

• experience with blood–brain barrier (BBB) models
• hands-on work with human brain organoids
• expertise in the development of RNA-based nanomedicines

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of competency in English (see University of Groningen’s English Language Requirements).

Conditions of employment

Fixed-term contract: A temporary appointment for a period of 12 months, with the possibility of extension. The starting date is ideally 1st of November of 2025.

What can you expect from us?

• 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
• End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.