Life Sciences PhD Vacancy at Leiden University | Apply Now
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy seekers looking for an opportunity in Europe can apply for this fully funded PhD position at Leiden University, Netherlands. This position focuses on genetic susceptibility in stem cell-derived organoid safety testing, using iPSCs, CRISPR technology, and advanced cell biology approaches to improve next-generation chemical safety assessments. Candidates with a background in biomedical sciences, biology, or biopharmaceutical sciences are encouraged to apply before 21 August 2026.
- Position: PhD Candidate – Genetic Susceptibility in Stem Cell-Derived Organoid Safety Testing
- Vacancy Number: 16775
- Duration: 4 Years
- Starting Date: Fall 2026 (Flexible)
- Location: Leiden, Netherlands
- Salary : €3,059 to €3,881 per month
About Leiden University
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy opportunities at Leiden University, vacancy in Netherlands, offer researchers the chance to work at one of Europe’s leading research universities. The Faculty of Science is internationally recognized for excellence in research and education across biology, chemistry, biopharmaceutical sciences, environmental sciences, physics, astronomy, mathematics, and computer science.
The university provides a collaborative, international, and inclusive research environment with over 2,700 staff members and more than 6,000 students. Located in the Bio Science Park in Leiden, one of Europe’s largest science parks, the university promotes innovation by connecting academia with industry.
About the PhD Project
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy at Leiden University, vacancy in Netherlands, focuses on understanding why individuals respond differently to harmful chemicals and why some people are more susceptible to organ damage.
The research investigates human toxicodynamic variability using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), donor-derived primary cells, organ-specific cell models, and 3D organoids. The project combines CRISPR gene-editing technology with advanced cellular stress detection methods to determine how genetic variation influences responses to chemical exposure. The findings will contribute to next-generation in vitro safety testing and improve chemical risk assessment by incorporating human genetic diversity.
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy Description
As a PhD candidate, you will work with human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and culture donor-derived primary cells from individuals with different genetic backgrounds. You will differentiate stem cells into organ-specific cell types and 3D organoids while applying CRISPR technology for gene-editing studies. The role involves investigating how genetic variants influence cellular responses to chemical exposure using advanced imaging and cellular stress response detection techniques. You will generate scientific data to support improved human safety assessment methods and actively participate in research and training activities within the Leiden Graduate School of Science.
Qualifications
- MSc in Biomedical Sciences, Biology, or a related field
- Experience with human iPSC culture and 3D in vitro systems
- Knowledge of molecular biology, cell biology, gene editing, microscopy, and cell signaling
- Interest in bioinformatics
- Excellent English communication and scientific writing skills
- Independent, enthusiastic, and collaborative researcher
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy – Key Responsibilities
- Perform stem cell and organoid culture experiments.
- Conduct molecular and cellular biology research.
- Apply gene-editing techniques using CRISPR.
- Analyze toxicodynamic variability across genetic backgrounds.
- Perform microscopy and cell signaling studies.
- Contribute to scientific publications.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams.
- Present research findings during meetings and conferences.
- Maintain accurate experimental documentation.
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy at Leiden University, vacancy in Netherlands, is an opportunity for graduates interested in stem cell biology, organoid research, toxicology, and genetic susceptibility studies. Candidates meeting the eligibility criteria should submit their applications before 21 August 2026.
Application Deadline: 21 August 2026
