Leiden/Amsterdam Center for Drug Research,  Division of Medicinal Chemistry Amsterdam 

Research project
The project ‘Target residence time in translational drug research’ is financed by Top Institute Pharma. The aim of this project is to evaluate the importance of ligand residence time on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCRs), one of the most important protein family of drug targets. It is now emerging that, next to ‘traditional’ target affinity, the total duration of the ligand-receptor interaction can also have a crucial impact on the ligand’s effectiveness and selectivity. The CCR2 chemokine receptor, a major target in inflammatory diseases, will serve
as a model system.

This Top Institute Pharma (www.tipharma.nl) project involves an international consortium, consisting of partners of the VU University Amsterdam, the University of Leiden and Vertex Pharmaceuticals. We are looking for an excellent (receptor) biochemist or biophysicist who will be responsible for preparation of GPCR proteins for SPR measurements and implementation of SPR technology within this research program.

Requirements
The candidate should have a PhD in biochemistry or biophysics and have a strong background in receptor biochemistry or SPR. Experience in the preparation of proteins for SPR measurements and/or SPR characterization of ligand-protein interaction is favourable. We are looking for a strong team player who is able to work in close collaboration with a team of molecular pharmacologists, receptor biochemists and organic chemists.

Further particulars
The appointment will be initially for 1 year. After positive evaluation the contract will be prolonged for another 2 years. You can find information about our excellent fringe benefits of employment at www.workingatvu.nl

Salary
The salary is determined according to the collective rules (CAO) of the Dutch universities. Salary scale 10 is applicable (minimum € 2.379,- and maximum € 3.755,-), based on a fulltime employment.

Information
For more information you can contact Prof. dr. Martine Smit
e-mail: mj.smit@few.vu.nl;
tel. +31 (20) 59 87572. 

Application
Applications including a detailed CV with one or two references should be sent to the VU University, Faculty of Sciences - Dept. P&O, attn. Prof. dr. Martine Smit, De Boelelaan 1083-A, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands, or by e-mail: few-vacatures@few.vu.nl. Please mention the vacancy number in the e-mail header or at the top of your letter and on the envelope.

Deadline application
March 25th, 2010

Publication date: 03-02-2010