Are you fascinated by stem cells, organoids, and biofabrication? Do you want to delve deeper into gene editing and make a meaningful impact on neonatal diabetes research? This PhD opening at Utrecht University could be your perfect chance. You’ll join the ON-SCREEN research team, working on cutting-edge stem cell, organoid, and biofabrication technologies to tackle Permanent Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus (PNDM).
🔬 About the Project
In this PhD project, you will:
- Develop an engineered system using 3D bioprinting to model and correct PNDM-causing mutations.
- Work with iPSC lines (induced Pluripotent Stem Cells) bearing specific mutations related to neonatal diabetes.
- Perform CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and push forward the boundaries of biofabrication and organoid culture.
- Explore the potential of advanced gene therapies to revert disease-causing mutations.
You’ll conduct research at the intersection of stem cell biology, organ-on-a-chip systems, and gene therapy in a highly collaborative environment. Your expertise will contribute to building realistic lab-based models that can screen for emerging gene therapy approaches to treat neonatal diabetes.
⭐ Why Utrecht University?
- Interdisciplinary Research Hub: Be part of a dynamic network comprising veterinarians, clinicians, material scientists, biologists, and engineers.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Benefit from the advanced labs and cutting-edge technology of the Regenerative Medicine Centre Utrecht and the Utrecht Biofabrication Facility.
- Academic and Professional Growth: Attend courses, seminars, and training sessions through the Utrecht Graduate School of Life Sciences, paving your way for an independent academic career.
- Inclusive Environment: Utrecht University values diversity and inclusivity, offering a supportive setting for your personal and professional development.
🎯 Key Responsibilities
- Establish CRISPR-Cas9-modified iPSC lines that mirror mutations causing neonatal diabetes.
- Develop 3D bioprinted stem cell and organoid culture systems to test novel gene therapies.
- Present findings at group meetings, conferences, and possibly peer-reviewed publications.
- Co-supervise BSc and MSc students, helping them to explore the frontiers of biofabrication and gene editing.
- Collaborate within a vibrant national and international research network.
🎓 Qualifications
- Master’s degree in biotechnology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline.
- Solid background in CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, molecular biology, and cell culture.
- Experience working with iPSCs (induced Pluripotent Stem Cells).
- Knowledge of gene editing vectors, stable cell line generation, and endoderm specification is a plus.
- Good command of English (spoken and written).
- Strong team spirit and excellent communication skills.
📚 Position Details
- Contract: Full-time (40 hours/week), temporary with the intention of completing a PhD.
- Location: Utrecht University, Netherlands.
- Deadline: March 14, 2025 (22:59 UTC).
- Salary: Ranging from €2,901 to €3,707 gross/month (based on a 38-hour workweek, in line with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).
You’ll also enjoy 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension schemes, and various professional development opportunities.
📝 How to Apply
Submit your:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation Letter
- Any relevant academic transcripts and certificates
Apply Online via AcademicTransfer.com. Ensure your application is complete. Incomplete or late submissions may not be considered.
🌐 Contact & More Information
- Main Contacts:
- Prof. Riccardo Levato (r.levato@uu.nl)
- Dr. Pere Catala (p.catalaquilis@umcutrecht.nl)
Utrecht University is committed to creating an inclusive environment. Staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and identities are encouraged to apply, and the institution provides an ecosystem where everyone can thrive.
Be Part of the Future of Gene Therapy
If you’re driven to explore gene editing, 3D bioprinting, and organ-on-a-chip models, and you want to make a real difference in neonatal diabetes research, then this PhD position is your opportunity. Join the ON-SCREEN team, push the boundaries of biofabrication, and become a pioneer in curing childhood conditions through advanced gene therapies.
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