PhD Candidate: Mechanism and Assembly: The Molecular Microbiology Section of the Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE) is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to investigate the mechanism and assembly of the Type VII Secretion System (T7SS) machineries. The project aims to understand how this large membrane complex is assembled and uncovers the mechanism by which it translocates folded proteins, using advanced molecular, biochemical methods, and cryo-electron microscopy.
PhD Candidate; Mechanism and Assembly of Type VII Secretion System Machineries
Designation: PhD Candidate
Table:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PHD CANDIDATE; MECHANISM AND ASSEMBLY OF TYPE VII SECRETION SYSTEM MACHINERIES |
| Research Area | Molecular Microbiology, Biochemistry, Protein Science, Structural Biology (cryo-EM) |
| Location | O2 Gebouw, Amsterdam |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science |
| Closing Date | 23-01-2026 |
| Publishing Date | 12-12-2025 |
Research Area: Molecular Microbiology, with a focus on protein secretion systems, membrane protein assembly, and structural biology.
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands, at the Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Molecular Microbiology Section.
Eligibility/Qualification:
- MSc degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related discipline. Candidates close to graduating are also encouraged to apply.
- Strong motivation to solve scientific problems and a curiosity-driven approach.
- Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, and protein science.
- A keen interest in membrane proteins and/or structural biology (cryo-EM). Previous experience in one of these topics is a plus.
- Affinity for both wet and dry lab methodology.
- Proficiency in English.
Description:
The PhD candidate will work on elucidating the mechanism and assembly of the Type VII Secretion System (T7SS) in Mycobacteria. This involves:
- Isolating membrane complexes from different genetic backgrounds.
- Characterizing their biochemical properties.
- Analyzing their molecular structure using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM).
- Integrating AI tools such as Alphafold and BindCraft to complement the analysis.
Benefits:
- A salary of € 3.059,00 (PhD) and maximum € 3.881,00 (PhD) gross per month in the fourth year, for a full-time employment.
- An employment contract of initially 1 year, with extension to a total of 4 years if there is sufficient perspective.
- Attractive fringe benefits and arrangements, including a collegial atmosphere, training opportunities, holiday leave entitlement, 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, contribution to commuting expenses, space for personal development, and discounts on cultural activities.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their application via the application button on the provided webpage, including:
- A motivation letter
- CV (including education history, a short summary of Master thesis and other research experience)
- Relevant diplomas
- Contact information for 2 references
Last Date for Apply: 23/01/2026
Additional Information:
- Please do not apply through mail; only applications through the VU application system will be considered.
- For questions about the vacancy, please contact CATALIN BUNDUC, Universitair docent, via the provided email on the webpage.
