Position Title: Scientist – RNA Biology & Neuromuscular Gene Therapy
Location: Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
Start Date: February 2027
Salary: €50,000 to €55,000 gross per year
Contract: 1-year contract with renewal possibility
Company Overview
XtRNA Bio is a spin-out from Radboud University, co-founded by Professor Erik Storkebaum and NLC Health Ventures. We aim to deliver disease-modifying treatments that promise to significantly improve the quality of life for patients with severe, unmet medical needs. We are pioneering tRNA-based therapies to correct the root cause of protein translational defects by elevating tRNA pools or expressing suppressor tRNAs. Our team unites expertise in tRNA biology, gene therapy, neuromuscular pathophysiology, and translational therapeutics.
Role Summary
We are looking for a forward-thinking scientist to serve as a key driver of our translational R&D efforts. The position is lab-based on the campus of Radboud University in Nijmegen and involves designing, executing, and interpreting experiments that optimize our AAV-tRNA platforms for neuromuscular disease applications, including studies in relevant animal and in vitro models. The successful candidate will work closely with a research associate and have the support of the scientific director to advance our tRNA elevation platform.
Responsibilities
- Lead research on AAV-tRNA therapies: Develop and test novel constructs aimed at restoring or enhancing tRNA function in neuromuscular conditions, primarily Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT).
- Gene delivery optimization: Evaluate different AAV capsids, administration routes, and dosage regimens to achieve reliable uptake and expression in peripheral motor and sensory neurons.
- In vivo and in vitro efficacy studies: Execute and supervise experimental workflows in rodent models of neuromuscular disorders, including functional assays (motor performance, histology), molecular analysis (RNA-level readouts), and biomarker evaluation.
- In vivo toxicology assessment: Design and execute animal studies to evaluate the toxicology profile of our therapeutic constructs.
Pipeline expansion: Contribute to next-generation RNA-based therapeutics by exploring suppressor tRNAs that will form the core of XtRNA Bio’s platform.
- Data analysis & presentation: Interpret complex datasets and communicate findings to internal teams, external collaborators, and potential investors.
- Strategic collaboration: Work closely with colleagues in vector manufacturing, quality/regulatory planning, and intellectual property. Participate in cross-functional discussions to align scientific developments with corporate milestones.
Qualifications
- PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience, or related discipline, with a strong background in RNA biology, gene therapy, and/or neuromuscular disease research.
- Experience working with AAV vectors (design, in vivo administration, analytics) is a major plus, particularly if linked to neuromuscular disease models.
- Based in the Netherlands and able to work on site in Nijmegen full time.
- Track record of independent research, evidenced by publications, conference presentations, or patents relevant to RNA therapeutics or gene therapy.
- Demonstrated proficiency in rodent model handling (Article 9 or FELASA certification, dosing, behavioral assessments, tissue dissection) and subsequent molecular analyses (qPCR, RNA FISH, Northern blotting, histopathology).
- Entrepreneurial mindset with the adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, start-up environment.
- Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, coupled with a passion for tackling challenging scientific and translational problems.
Why join XtRNA Bio?
XtRNA Bio offers a unique opportunity to pioneer the emerging field of tRNA therapeutics for neuromuscular diseases. By joining early, you can directly influence both the scientific trajectory of our programs and the strategic growth of the company. Our dynamic and collaborative culture emphasizes innovation, personal development, and a shared commitment to delivering life-changing therapies for patients.