PhD Vacancy at the University of Amsterdam, Netherlands | Life Sciences Candidates, Apply Online and Earn up to €4,051 /month
A rare University of Amsterdam PhD opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences. The institute is seeking a PhD candidate to explore how early-life gut microbes influence immune development through innovative gut-on-a-chip, organoid, and omics approaches. This PhD Vacancy is located in the Netherlands, with applications closing on 13 October 2026.
- Job Position: PhD Candidate in Early-Life Gut Microbiome-Immune Interaction
- Reference Number: 15511
- Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
About The Institute
The Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences is part of the University of Amsterdam, focusing on research in the biological sciences. It aims to understand complex biological systems and their interactions, contributing to advancements in health and disease understanding. The institute fosters an interdisciplinary research environment, encouraging collaboration among scientists from various fields.
University of Amsterdam PhD: Job Description
This University of Amsterdam PhD vacancy involves investigating how the microbiome acquired in early life influences immune development and intestinal health. The role includes using advanced gut-on-a-chip technology, organoid models, and omics approaches to identify microbial species, metabolites, and genes that mediate microbiota–immune interactions, generating knowledge that can support future interventions to improve metabolic health.
PhD Vacancy – Key Responsibilities
- Complete a PhD thesis within the official appointment duration (four years).
- Design and conduct experiments on maternal factors, infant gut microbiota, and intestinal health.
- Cultivate and characterise infant gut microbes using the GUMI platform and complementary methods.
- Utilise organoid and immune-competent gut–microbe co-culture models.
- Analyse omics and experimental data to identify key bacterial species, metabolites, and genes.
- Communicate results through scientific publications, presentations, and collaboration within the project team.
- Complete the PhD training programme of the Faculty of Science and contribute to teaching activities for Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
Eligibility Criteria Required For PhD Vacancy
- Hold, or be 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.
- 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.
- Document, analyse, and communicate research results clearly and responsibly.
Experience in one or more of the following is preferred: immune-cell culture and profiling, flow cytometry, anaerobic bacterial cultivation, organoids, microphysiological systems, or omics data analysis.
What the Institute Offers?
The institute offers a University of Amsterdam PhD vacancy with 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). An educational plan will be drafted that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. The candidate is also expected to assist in teaching undergraduates and Master’s students.
The salary will range between €3,204 in the first year and €4,051 gross per month in the last year of employment, based on full-time employment (38 hours per week). This sum does not include the 8% holiday pay and the 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the 30% ruling, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU) is applicable.
Salary: €3,204 – €4,051 per month
Application Deadline: 13 October 2026
Application Process and Contact Information
Interested candidates who meet the profile are encouraged to apply online before the deadline. Applications are accepted until and including 13 October 2026.
For inquiries or additional information, please contact:
- Dr Jianbo Zhang, [email protected]
Applications should include the following documents (all files besides your CV should be submitted in one single PDF file):
- A detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience.
- A letter of motivation.
- The names and email addresses of two references who can provide letters of recommendation.
- Transcripts of courses completed during Bachelor’s and Master’s studies.
This University of Amsterdam PhD vacancy at the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences allows candidates to engage in significant research that could impact understanding of immune development and health. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply for this PhD Vacancy before the deadline of 13 October 2026. This opportunity offers a unique chance to contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of microbiome and immune interactions.
