You will investigate interactions among maternal factors, the infant gut microbiota and intestinal health to uncover underlying mechanisms. Using the physiomimetic Gut-on-a-chip (GUMI) platform and omics analytical facilities, you will characterise metabolic functions of infant gut microbes under conditions relevant to clinical observations. You will use organoids and immune-competent gut–microbe co-culture models to examine how early microbial colonisation affects immune-cell development, gut epithelium and immunity, with particular attention to naïve T-cell maturation.

Tasks and responsibilities:

• complete a PhD thesis within the official appointment duration (four years);
• designing and conducting experiments on maternal factors, infant gut microbiota and intestinal health;
• culturing and characterising infant gut microbes using the GUMI platform and complementary methods;
• using organoid and immune-competent gut–microbe co-culture models;
• analysing omics and experimental data to identify key bacterial species, metabolites and genes;
• communicating results through scientific publications, presentations and collaboration within the project team;
• completing the PhD training programme of the Faculty of Science and contributing to teaching activities for Bachelor’s and Master’s students.

You

• hold, or are close to completing, an MSc degree (or equivalent) in immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences or a closely related field;
• communicate effectively in English, both in writing and in conversation;
• can plan and carry out experimental work independently while actively collaborating with colleagues in an interdisciplinary team;
• approach complex research questions with curiosity, careful problem solving and persistence;
• can document, analyse and communicate research results clearly and responsibly.

It is a preference if you have experience in one or more of the following: immune-cell culture and profiling, flow cytometry, anaerobic bacterial cultivation, organoids, microphysiological systems, or omics data analysis.

We offer a temporary employment contract for 38 hours per week for a total duration of 4 years. The initial contract is for 18 months and, after satisfactory evaluation, will be extended to a total duration of 4 years. The preferred starting date is 1 January 2027. This appointment should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and Master’s students.

Your salary will range between €3,204 in the first year to €4,051 gross per month in the last year of employment, based on a fulltime employment (38 hours per week). This sum does not include the 8% holiday pay and the 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favorable tax agreement, the 30% ruling, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU) is applicable.

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.