Postdoc 'Targeted oligonucleotide delivery in inflammatory kidney diseases'

Join our team as a postdoctoral researcher in an 18-month project, starting on 1 October 2026; a later start date can be accommodated.

Chronic inflammatory kidney diseases are a major health burden. Current treatment is symptomatic with significant systemic side effects. Oligonucleotides such as antisense oligonucleotides, siRNA and mRNA provide the possibility to specifically interfere with disease-causing processes, however, these molecules critically depend on effective targeting of the disease causing target cells.

In this application-oriented project, we will take strategies for cellular targeting and activity measurement of various types of oligonucleotides coupled to targeting ligands from an early to a late preclinical stage. For this purpose, coupling protocols and analytical protocols will be optimized and activity and toxicity studies for the various types of formulations performed.

You will independently design, perform and analyse experiments aimed at improving cellular targeting and advancing these formulations towards late-stage preclinical development.

The project is directed by and conducted in close collaboration with Mercurna, a biotech company developing targeted therapies for chronic inflammatory kidney disease. Mercurna is also located in Nijmegen, enabling a close coordination of activities.