Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc) 
Nijmegen, Netherlands Offer Summary
Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher for an 18‑month project on targeted oligonucleotide delivery in inflammatory kidney diseases, starting 1 October 2026 (later start possible). The role involves designing, executing and analysing experiments to optimise conjugation, targeting and toxicity of antisense, siRNA and mRNA formulations, in close collaboration with biotech partner Mercurna. Candidates should have experience in biomolecular conjugation, mass spectrometry, dynamic light scattering, and standard cell‑biological techniques; confocal microscopy is a plus. The position offers a salary of €3,724–€5,867 per month and requires a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).
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Project Description
Job description
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.
Place of work
The work will take place at the Radboudumc in the group of Targeted Nanomedicines (Prof. Dr. Roland Brock) of the Departement of Medical BioSciences in close collaboration with Mercurna B.V.
Profile
You should have experience in biomolecular conjugation strategies and analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry and dynamic light scattering next to standard biochemical and cell biological techniques. Experience in confocal microscopy is desirable.
As this project will focus on process optimization and standardization, there should be a good understanding of the relevant degrees of freedom. You should be able to plan, execute and analyze experiments independently and carefully document protocols and results.
Good to know
- This position requires a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).
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