Summary
Leiden University is inviting applications for a PhD position focused on the bacterial packaging of biocatalytic nanofactories. This project aims to optimize a new technology where biocatalysts are confined in lipid vesicles during bacterial expression, enhancing yields and creating ready-to-go encapsulated systems for synthetic cell research.
Designation
PhD Candidate
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | Leiden University |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science |
| Institute | Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) |
| Research Group | Macromolecular Biochemistry (Jeuken Lab) |
| Salary | €3,204 – €4,051 gross per month |
| Location | Leiden, Netherlands (Hybrid possible) |
| Closing Date | 27 November 2026 |
Research Area
The research is situated within the fields of Synthetic Cells, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. Specifically, it involves the expression, characterization, and engineering of biocatalysts and the development of lipid-encapsulated systems.
Location
Leiden, Netherlands. The position is based at the Leiden Institute of Chemistry, located within the Leiden Bio Science Park.
Eligibility/Qualification
The university is looking for highly motivated candidates who meet the following criteria:
- A Master’s degree in Life Sciences and Technology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related discipline.
- Hands-on experience in cloning, expression, purification, and characterization of biocatalysts.
- Experience in the preparation and analysis of lipid vesicles is highly preferred.
- Strong technical experimental and analytical skills with a focus on enzyme structure-function relationships.
- Excellent communication skills and proficiency in scientific English.
- Must be a resident of the Netherlands or willing to relocate upon starting.
Scholarship/Position Description
The successful candidate will join the research group of Prof. Lars Jeuken. Key benefits and responsibilities include:
- Project Focus: Optimizing technology to package biocatalysts in lipid vesicles during expression to create complex ‘chemical nanofactories’.
- Contract: Initial one-year contract with a view to permanent employment (standard for PhD tracks in the Netherlands).
- Salary: Competitive monthly salary plus an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- Leave: Minimum of 29 leave days based on a full-time week, with flexible working hours.
- Environment: Access to state-of-the-art labs, including electrochemistry and nanofabrication facilities, within a collaborative international atmosphere.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official Leiden University careers portal. Your application must include:
- A motivation letter explaining why you are interested in this specific project and why you are a suitable candidate.
- An extensive CV.
- A list of courses taken and grades obtained during your Master’s studies.
- Contact details for at least two references.
Last Date for Apply
Applications must be submitted no later than 27 November 2026.
Apply Link
Click here to apply for the PhD position at Leiden University
