Are you passionate about disease modeling, cystic fibrosis (CF), and intestinal inflammation research? The Cellular Disease Model (CDM) Lab at UMC Utrecht is seeking two highly motivated PhD candidates to work on cutting-edge projects exploring genetic diseases, inflammation, and cancer development.
This fully funded PhD position offers an opportunity to work with advanced patient-derived organoid models, CRISPR-based genome editing, and high-throughput drug screening to develop novel therapies.
π’ Follow BiocareersHub for the latest career opportunities in biomedical research and help us grow!
π¬ About the Research Projects
The CDM Lab at UMC Utrecht is launching two PhD projects focused on disease modeling and drug therapy optimization for cystic fibrosis (CF) and intestinal inflammation.
PhD Position 1: Disease Modeling of CF and Intestinal Inflammation
β
Develop epithelial and immune cell co-cultures to study CF and inflammation.
β
Investigate intestinal epithelial-immune interactions and their impact on disease progression.
β
Explore the link between CF, inflammation, and colorectal cancer development.
β
Work with advanced epithelial culture models and patient-derived organoids (PDIOs).
PhD Position 2: Optimizing Drug Therapies for Rare CFTR Mutations
β
Identify novel drug combinations to restore CFTR function in rare mutations.
β
Replace animal-derived materials with animal-free alternatives in disease models.
β
Conduct high-throughput drug screening and organoid-based functional assays.
β
Improve current CF disease models in collaboration with the Center for Animal-Free Innovations (CPBT).
Both projects will involve state-of-the-art molecular biology techniques, including:
π¬ Primary cell culture & patient-derived organoids (PDIOs)
𧬠CRISPR-based genome editing
π Functional assays for CFTR activity
π Advanced imaging techniques
π§ͺ Transcriptomics & proteomics approaches
π©Ί Immunological profiling & inflammatory signaling analyses
These projects bridge fundamental and translational research, offering high-impact discoveries that could lead to new treatments for CF and inflammation-related diseases.
π Position Details
- Location: UMC Utrecht, Netherlands
- Application Deadline: March 18, 2025 (22:59 UTC)
- Contract Type: Temporary (PhD program duration: 4 years)
- Working Hours: 36 hours per week
- Salary: Up to β¬3,824/month (full-time)
- Additional Benefits:
- 8.3% annual bonus
- Holiday allowance
- Travel expenses covered
- Career development opportunities
π Who Should Apply?
These PhD positions are ideal for candidates interested in genetic disease modeling, CFTR research, and translational medicine.
Eligibility Criteria:
βοΈ Masterβs degree in biomedical sciences, molecular biology, immunology, or a related field
βοΈ Strong interest in epithelial biology, inflammation, and disease modeling
βοΈ Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
βοΈ Excellent analytical and teamwork skills
Preferred Skills (Meritorious):
πΉ Experience with primary cell culture and immune cell culture
πΉ Knowledge of epithelial and organoid biology
πΉ Familiarity with CRISPR gene editing and molecular assays
π‘ If youβre eager to work on next-generation CF and inflammation therapies, this is the perfect PhD opportunity!
π How to Apply
π Apply Here
Application Requirements:
π Motivation Letter (explain your research interests and preferred project)
π Curriculum Vitae (CV)
π Contact details of at least two academic referees
π§ For inquiries, contact:
- Dr. Erika van Nieuwenhove & Dr. Sacha Spelier
- Dr. Jeffrey Beekman (for additional information)
- π +31 6 39 59 70 78
- π© J.Beekman@umcutrecht.nl
π Primary Work Location: UMC Utrecht, Netherlands
π Why Join This PhD Program?
ποΈ World-Class Research Institution: UMC Utrecht is a global leader in biomedical research, focusing on innovative treatments for genetic diseases.
𧬠Cutting-Edge Disease Modeling: Work with patient-derived organoids, CRISPR technology, and high-throughput drug screening.
π©Ί Translational Medicine Focus: Conduct clinically relevant research that could lead to new therapies for cystic fibrosis and intestinal inflammation.
π Career Growth & Networking: Collaborate with top researchers in immunology, epithelial biology, and CF research, enhancing your career prospects.
π Selection Process
βοΈ Application Deadline: March 18, 2025
βοΈ Start Date: As soon as possible (negotiable)
βοΈ Duration: 4 years
βοΈ Employment Type: Full-time, temporary
π’ Apply now to become part of a high-impact research team at UMC Utrecht!
π§ For more details, visit: UMC Utrecht Website
π’ Support BiocareersHub & Stay Updated on Research Jobs!
We are committed to connecting researchers with top career opportunities in biomedical sciences.
π Follow & Support Us Here: BiocareersHub
π‘ Share this opportunity with biomedical researchers and PhD candidates who might be interested! ππ¬