Scientist Cell Biology

ProQR Therapeutics is a biotechnology company listed on NASDAQ with offices in Leiden, the Netherlands and Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. ProQR is focused on the development of life changing RNA therapies to meet the unmet need of individuals and families with common and rare diseases. A team of 170+ enthusiastic ProQRians from all walks of life and more than 30 different nationalities is up to this challenge. We have the passion and commitment to make a difference in the lives of the communities we serve. Our proprietary Axiomer® RNA editing technology platform enables the editing of specific single nucleotides in RNA using the cells own editing machinery. Axiomer® RNA editing technology harnesses ADAR (Adenosine Deaminase Acting on RNA), which is machinery present in all human cells to repair G-to-A mutations, modulate protein, and enable protective mutation functions. Axiomer could potentially yield a new class of innovative medicines and treat currently untreatable diseases.

The R&D department is currently looking for a Scientist Cell Biology (Full-time) to join our team. You will work closely together with (Sr.) Researcher Technicians and other Scientists.

Location: Leiden, Netherlands

The role:

As Scientist Cell Biology, you will take a leading role in the design and execution of scientific studies and experiments. Acting as a subject matter expert, you will remain hands-on in the lab and play a key role in translating scientific innovation into practical applications. You will independently analyze and interpret experimental data, drawing meaningful conclusions and recommending the next steps to drive projects forward.

In this role, you will also design and lead the development of new laboratory techniques/processes.

Collaboration is central to success in this role. Consequently, you will work closely with (Senior) Research Technicians and fellow Scientists across disciplines to ensure high-quality, impactful outcomes.

We are looking for candidates with extensive hands-on experience in the following fields:

• Strong understanding of intracellular trafficking: Solid knowledge of intracellular trafficking pathways and mechanisms, particularly those influencing endosomal transport and release.
• Expertise in endosomal release processes: Demonstrated experience studying endosomal escape mechanisms in cellular systems.
• Proficiency in Cell-type specific method development: Proven ability to develop and optimize methods using endosomal escape reagents (strongly preferred), with a focus on cell-type specific responses.

• Experience with antisense oligonucleotides is a plus.

We expect our Scientist Cell Biology:

• To have a PhD degree in Cell Biology or an MSc degree with at least 7 years of work experience, preferably in an industry setting

• To have a proven track record of publications and presentations

• To be solution and result-driven

• To work with focus in a dedicated team

• To have a proven ability to effectively interact with technical and scientific staff

• To design, plan, and execute scientific studies

• To be responsible for the optimization of methods and protocols

• To analyze experiments and report these in a lab journal and technical reports

• To present results and suggest next experimental steps

• To contribute to peer-reviewed manuscripts, tech reports and patent filings

Skills and competencies that are required for making the difference:

• Curiosity in science
• Analytical and accurate
• Proactive and flexible attitude
• Team player
• Autonomous and coachable
• Good knowledge of English, both in words and writing
• Ability to work under pressure
• Experience in the bio-tech industry is a plus
• Creative thinker
• A nice person :)

ProQR as an employer

As an employer, we are a true believer of the value of a workforce in which people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to develop themselves, personally and professionally. We believe that happy and energized people, working well together in an environment in which they thrive, will do phenomenal and awesome things.

We are committed to ensure that no employee, candidate, or job applicant receives less favorable treatment on the grounds of race, age, disability, pregnancy, religion, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership status. At ProQR we want to create an inclusive culture where everyone can be valued for who they are and in which individual differences and the contributions in all forms are recognized and valued.

We offer an exciting and innovative working environment in a very committed organization, with the following benefits:

• 8% holiday allowance
• 30 vacation days
• An annual performance bonus
• Stock options
• A premium-free pension plan
• A commuting allowance
• A subsidized staff restaurant
• Unlimited (un)healthy snacks and drinks
• Employee events (boot camp, Rebel Café and other social events)

Do you think you can contribute to achieving our mission? If so, we’re looking forward to receiving your application by filling out our application form.

You can contact Silvia Catellani via recruitment@proqr.com if you have any questions.

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