PhD Position: Genetic Susceptibility, Leiden University, Netherlands

Summary

The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is offering a 4-year PhD candidate position focused on investigating human toxicodynamic variability—how genetic differences cause people to respond differently to harmful chemical substances. Using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), CRISPR technology, and 3D organoid systems, the candidate will help build next-generation in vitro safety testing models that better reflect human genetic diversity.

PhD Position: Genetic Susceptibility in Stem Cell-Derived Organoid Safety Testing, Leiden University, Netherlands

Job Overview

Research Area

• Topic: Human toxicodynamic variability and genetic susceptibility in stem cell-derived organoid safety testing.
• Core Technologies: Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) culture, primary cells, CRISPR gene editing, 3D organoid modeling, molecular cell biology, high-content imaging/microscopy, and bioinformatics.

Eligibility & Qualifications

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Degree: MSc in (Bio)-pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biology, or a related discipline.
• Technical Expertise: Experience in human iPSC culture, 3D in vitro systems, cell signaling, microscopy, molecular and cell biology, and gene editing.
• Skills & Interests: Interest in bioinformatics, strong scientific writing skills, and high proficiency in English (oral and written).
• Personal Attributes: Independent thinker, ambitious, enthusiastic, and a collaborative team player.

Job Description

As a PhD candidate on this project, you will:

• Work with donor-derived primary cells and iPSCs with diverse genetic backgrounds.
• Differentiate stem cells into organ-specific cell types and 3D organoids.
• Apply CRISPR technology and advanced detection tools to evaluate how genetic variants alter cellular stress responses to chemical exposures.
• Map how individual genetic backgrounds translate into toxicodynamic variability to improve risk estimation in chemical safety assessments.
• Complete PhD coursework through the Leiden University Graduate School of Science.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the Leiden University Careers Portal by clicking the “Apply Now” button on the job page.

Required Documents to Upload (quoting vacancy number 16775):

1. Cover / Motivation Letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Academic transcripts from BSc and MSc studies
4. Copy of your (draft) Master’s thesis
5. Two reference letters (preferred)

Last Date to Apply

August 21, 2026 (Starting date: Fall 2026, flexible)

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