PhD in Cell Therapy at Amsterdam UMC, Netherlands | Apply Online & Earn Upto €4,077

Develop patient-based models that could help advance treatments for inherited retinal diseases. This PhD in cell therapy at Amsterdam UMC combines stem cell research, disease modelling and preclinical transplantation studies to investigate conditions including gyrate atrophy and retinitis pigmentosa. The project connects experimental findings with patients’ genetic and clinical characteristics.

  • Position: PhD in Cell Therapy for Hereditary Eye Diseases

  • Employer: Amsterdam UMC Research BV

  • Location: AMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands

  • Working Hours: 36 hours per week

  • Initial Contract: Fixed-term, 12 months, with the intention to extend to a total of four years under the Guideline PhD contract

About The Organisation

The position is based in the Ophthalmogenetics section of Human Genetics at Amsterdam UMC, in collaboration with Emma Children’s Hospital’s Emma CPM and the Department of Ophthalmology.

The project forms part of the Lifelong VISION programme, within Platform A: Model Systems and Pillar 3: Cell-Based Therapy. Amsterdam UMC Research BV, the employer, supports non-profit scientific research.

Supervision is provided by:

  • Dr Céline Koster.

  • Dr Roselie Diederen.

  • Prof. Clara van Karnebeek.

  • Prof. Riekelt Houtkooper.

PhD Project: Patient-Based Models for Cell Therapy

This PhD in Cell Therapy project focuses on developing and characterising in vitro and in vivo models of inherited retinal diseases.

Using patient-derived stem cells, you will optimise differentiation protocols for retinal cell types and tissue models. You will examine how genetic and clinical characteristics are reflected in model morphology, molecular properties and function, then identify suitable models and outcome measures for evaluating new treatments.

Key Research Tasks

  • Culture patient-derived stem cells and optimise differentiation protocols.

  • Characterise in vitro models at molecular, cellular and functional levels.

  • Contribute to patient-based in vivo models and relevant outcome measures.

  • Investigate cell therapy approaches, including combinations of stem cell-derived cells and biomaterials.

  • Contribute to preclinical transplantation studies.

  • Integrate experimental findings with genetic and clinical patient data.

  • Present results within Lifelong VISION, Emma CPM and scientific meetings.

  • Publish research findings and complete a PhD thesis.

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must have a completed MSc in Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Biotechnology, Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering or a related discipline.

The role also requires:

  • Practical experience in experimental laboratory research and cell culture.

  • Interest in disease models, genetic variation and clinical characteristics.

  • Interest in cell therapy and biomaterials.

  • Willingness to work with in vivo models and complete the required training.

  • A critical, precise and persistent research approach.

  • Good English communication skills.

Experience with stem cells, differentiation or complex tissue models is advantageous. An Article 9 qualification and Dutch language skills are also advantages.

Physicians registered in the Dutch BIG register are not eligible.

Salary, Contract and Benefits

The OIO salary range is €3,217–€4,077 gross per month on a full-time basis, depending on experience, plus an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.

The initial appointment is for 12 months, with the intention to extend employment to a total of four years.

Listed benefits include:

  • 194.4 holiday hours per year.

  • 100% public transport reimbursement or a mileage allowance.

  • Bike scheme.

  • Pension with BeFrank.

How to Apply

Click the APPLY ONLINE HERE link below to open the official Amsterdam UMC vacancy and submit your application by 22 November 2026. Applications are reviewed continuously, and the vacancy may close early once a suitable candidate is found.

The first interview round is scheduled for 30 November–11 December 2026, followed by a second round. A reference check, screening and a VOG (Certificate of Good Conduct) may be required.

For MSc graduates interested in regenerative medicine and inherited eye disorders, this PhD in Cell Therapy offers an opportunity to connect patient-derived models with cell therapy research, developing evidence to guide future treatment strategies.

APPLY ONLINE HERE