PhD Vacancy at Utrecht University | Apply Now
PhD vacancy opportunities in regenerative medicine continue to attract talented researchers worldwide, and this exciting position at Utrecht University offers a unique chance to contribute to innovative research in biofabrication, optogenetics, and synthetic biology technologies. If you are looking for a job in Netherlands, a biotech job, or an opportunity to work with advanced bioprinting and stem cell technologies, this fully funded PhD position could be the ideal next step in your scientific career.
- Job Position: PhD Candidate in Biofabrication, Optogenetics and Synthetic Biology Technologies
- Company: Utrecht University
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
- Department: Faculty of Veterinary Medicine – Department of Clinical Sciences
- Application Deadline: 23 June 2026
About the University
PhD vacancy opportunities at Utrecht University provide researchers with access to world-class facilities and internationally recognized scientific expertise. Utrecht University is one of the leading research universities in Europe, dedicated to creating a better future through innovative research and inspiring education. The university focuses on major strategic themes including Life Sciences, Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, and Pathways to Sustainability.
The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine trains future veterinarians and researchers while conducting impactful research that connects animal, human, and environmental health. With approximately 1,500 students and 950 staff members, the faculty promotes collaboration, innovation, and scientific excellence. The successful candidate will become part of the Utrecht Graduate School of Life Sciences and receive extensive training, supervision, and professional development opportunities to build an independent academic career.
PhD Vacancy Description
PhD vacancy at Utrecht University offers an opportunity to conduct research within the biofabrication team, focusing on the development of innovative biofabrication and bioprinting technologies to control tissue vascularization. As part of this prestigious ERC-funded project, you will join the Levato Research Group at the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht. The research aims to develop new strategies for vascularizing engineered tissues using engineered stem cells and synthetic biology tools.
The project combines advanced synthetic biology approaches, ultra-fast light-based volumetric bioprinting technologies, and engineered stem cells to create tissue-specific vascularization within human organoid-based engineered tissues. These technologies will help researchers better understand healthy and diseased vascular conditions, particularly in diabetes-related blood vessel pathologies. You will work closely with national and international collaborators while contributing to the development of next-generation human disease models and regenerative medicine therapies.
Qualifications
PhD vacancy applicants should possess strong academic credentials and relevant research experience in biotechnology-related disciplines.
Required
- Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Synthetic Biology, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
- Proven expertise in cell engineering.
- Strong knowledge of molecular biology techniques.
- Experience in bioengineering research.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
- Strong scientific writing and presentation skills.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Preferred
- Experience in optogenetics.
- Experience working with organoids.
- Knowledge of gene editing technologies.
- Expertise in vascular cell biology.
- Experience with hydrogels for 3D cell culture.
- Previous experience with light-based bioprinting.
- Experience with volumetric bioprinting.
- Knowledge of two-photon polymerization printing technologies.
PhD Vacancy – Key Responsibilities
PhD vacancy candidates will be responsible for performing advanced research activities within a multidisciplinary scientific environment. Responsibilities include:
- Develop novel biofabrication and bioprinting technologies for tissue vascularization.
- Design and implement synthetic biology strategies for engineered tissues.
- Work with engineered stem cells and human organoid-based tissue models.
- Utilize light-based volumetric bioprinting technologies.
- Investigate vascular network formation and tissue-specific vascular characteristics.
- Study blood vessel pathologies associated with diabetes.
- Collaborate with national and international research partners.
- Work alongside researchers at the OMBION Center for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation.
- Co-supervise BSc and MSc students during internships.
- Participate in teaching activities when required.
- Present scientific findings and contribute to publications.
- Stay updated with recent advances in biofabrication, regenerative medicine, and synthetic biology.
