You will screen and identify which gut-adapted bacterial strains potently induce beneficial immune cell differentiation using ex vivo assays and in vitro anaerobic gut-microbiome-on-a-chip system. Using our facilities for research, you will decipher the underlying mechanisms of action that contribute to the beneficial functions. Within the anaerobic gut-microbiome-on-a-chip system, you will determine the influence of probiotic strains on the gut microbiota, intestinal barrier function, and immune cell differentiation and activation using multicolor flowcytometry and multi-omics such as metabolomics and transcriptomics (facility is available for support). 

You have/are:

• a PhD degree in Infection and Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or closely related fields. Candidates in the final stages of obtaining their degree are eligible to apply;
• an excellent background in immunology, T cell biology, immunometabolism, and hands-on experience of primary immune cell culture, organoids, multi-color flowcytometry, and transcriptomic data analysis;
• a problem-solving mindset and are able to perform team-oriented as well as independent work;
• fluent in English, both written and spoken. 

Additional experience with gut microbiota is an asset as is proficiency in ‘omics data analysis. Anaerobic culturing is preferred but not required.

We offer a temporary contract for 38  hours a week, for the duration of 18 months, with a probation period of 2 months. We would like you to start on 1-5-2025 or upon agreement. The salary, depending on relevant experience before the beginning of the employment contract, will be between € 3.378 and € 5.331 gross per month, based on a fulltime contract (38 hours a week). This is exclusive 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable. Are you curious about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits like our excellent opportunities for study and development? Take a look here.