Can you help develop better models for drug delivery to the brain? Join this interdisciplinary PhD project and combine human brain organoids, blood-brain barrier models and nanocarrier technology to advance drug development for neurological disorders.
- Deadline: 7 October 2026
- Published: 2026-09-23
- Research fields: Engineering; Neurosciences; Pharmacological sciences
- Job types: PhD
- Education level: University graduate
- Weekly hours: 36 hours per week
- Salary indication: €3217—€4077 per month
- Location: De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam
Job description
MEMORY: Integrating human blood-brain barrier and brain organoids to model drug delivery
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a specialized vascular interface found in the capillaries of the brain. It protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood and helps maintain brain homeostasis. BBB dysfunction is an early feature of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. New therapies that target and repair cells of the brain and BBB could help prevent cognitive decline.
However, current preclinical models have limited predictive value. This creates a need for innovative models that better reproduce the human brain and its interactions with the BBB. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can differentiate into multiple cell types in vitro and generate brain organoids: three-dimensional, multicellular structures that can reproduce aspects of human brain complexity.
In this PhD project, you will investigate drug delivery across the BBB using a model that integrates a human BBB with cortical brain organoids derived from hiPSCs. You will compare the therapeutic potential of natural and synthetic nanocarriers and investigate how they interact with the BBB and brain tissue.
The model reproduces key aspects of neurovascular interactions and has potential applications in disease modelling, therapeutic target discovery, drug screening and the early evaluation of efficacy and side effects.
This project is part of a unique public-private partnership. The expertise of Prof. dr. Elga de Vries' lab at Amsterdam UMC in BBB biology, hiPSC-derived models, drug delivery and organoids is combined with the expertise and technology of Locsense, a Dutch company specialising in in vitro sensing technology.
Your research will contribute to reducing animal testing, strengthening translational research and advancing personalised medicine for neurological conditions.
Would you like to know more about the different phases within the PhD trajectory? You can read more about this on this page.
You will develop and apply advanced human in vitro models to study drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier. You will:
- compare the therapeutic potential of natural and synthetic nanocarriers;
- work with hiPSC-derived cortical brain organoids and human blood-brain barrier models;
- investigate neurovascular interactions and the delivery of therapeutic compounds to the brain;
- contribute to applications in disease modelling, therapeutic target discovery and drug screening;
- collaborate with researchers from Amsterdam UMC and Locsense within this interdisciplinary public-private partnership.
Requirements
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic researcher with an interest in drug delivery, human in vitro models and neurological diseases. You have:
- a Master’s degree in neuroscience, biomedical sciences or a related field;
- an interest in in vitro modelling, nanoparticle technologies, blood-brain barrier biology and neurodegenerative diseases;
- experience with hiPSC culture and differentiation and/or in vitro blood-brain barrier models and brain organoids;
- experience with organ-on-chip, MEA or nanoparticle technologies is an advantage;
- excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, a proactive and flexible attitude, and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
Conditions of employment
You will be employed by Amsterdam UMC Research BV.
A contract for 12 months, with the intention to extend for a total of four years. The Guideline PhD contract applies to this vacancy.
Classification in salary scale OIO: € 3.217 to € 4.077 gross for full-time employment (depending on experience). In addition to a good basic salary, we offer 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Calculate your net salary here.
Holiday hours: 194.4 per year for full time and a possibility to save additional hours.
100% reimbursement for public transport travel costs. If you travel by foot, bicycle, or car, a mileage allowance of €0.21 per km applies (up to a maximum of 40 km one way by car).
Do you prefer walking or cycling? Take advantage of our good bike scheme.
Pension accrual with BeFrank, a modern, comprehensible and fairly priced pension.
Watch this video with more information about joining Amsterdam UMC Research BV.
Employer
Amsterdam UMC
This project will be performed at Amsterdam UMC, in the Neuro-immunology research group, under the supervision of Prof. dr. Elga de Vries, Dr. Diogo Lázaro Fortunato and Dr. Silvia Angiolillo (Immunology Amsterdam – Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology (MCBI) location VUmc; O|2 Building).
You will work in a team of enthusiastic researchers with expertise in neuroimmunology, bio-engineering, cell biology, molecular neuroscience, EVs and neurological diseases. This collaborative project is funded by Health Holland and embedded within Amsterdam Neuroscience.
The intended start date for the project is November 1st 2026.
Amsterdam UMC Research BV
Amsterdam UMC Research BV supports non-profit scientific research. In doing so, we provide researchers with everything they need to excel. Our principal investigators (PIs) and project leaders offer support in the field of project management, finance and human resources. In medical scientific research projects, legal support is also provided.
Watch the video to find out more.
Additional information
During the publication period, applications will be handled continuously. If the vacancy is filled, it will be closed prematurely.
If you have any questions about this position, please feel free to contact Prof. dr. Elga de Vries, at he.devries@amsterdamumc.nl and/or Dr. Diogo Lázaro Fortunato, at d.m.lazarofortunato@amsterdamumc.nl.
A reference check, screening and hiring assessment may be part of the procedure. Read here whether that applies to you. If you join us, we ask you for a VOG (Certificate of Good Conduct).
Internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates in case of equal suitability.
Acquisition in response to this vacancy will not be considered.
Together @ Amsterdam UMC
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