PhD position in Developmental Biology

Uncover hidden rules of translation regulation in early embryos using cutting-edge single cell ribosome profiling to map mRNA regulation.

Deadline: 30 Sep ’25

Published on: 5 Sep ’25

Vacancy ID: 4872

Job description

The translation of mRNAs by ribosomes is a key step in decoding the information stored in our genome. Especially in germ cells and early embryos, where transcription is absent, regulation of translation is crucial for controlling protein levels and guiding development. In the Ruijtenberg lab, we study these mechanisms using a combination of genome-wide sequencing and single-molecule imaging approaches, aiming to understand how cells determine their fate and function.

Your job

In this PhD project, you will study how the translation of mRNAs is regulated in space and time during early development. While this regulation is well understood for some genes, for most it remains largely unknown, mainly because assays to measure translation in single cells or at the subcellular level in multicellular organisms have been lacking. You will build on our recently developed single-cell ribosome profiling methods for C. elegans and further optimize them to apply to the early embryo. With this approach, you will generate a genome-wide overview of translational regulation during development. In parallel, you will uncover the mechanisms that control localized and cell-type-specific translation, and how these change across developmental stages or within subcellular compartments.

During your PhD, you will:

• Gain expertise in translation regulation, single-cell sequencing and developmental biology
• Learn to design and carry out experiments using state-of-the-art methods
• Develop strong skills in data analysis and critical thinking
• Grow into an independent scientist while expanding your knowledge through your own research
• Contribute to a collaborative, enthusiastic, and respectful research environment in the division of Developmental Biology

Requirements

You share our interest in gene expression and translation regulation in the context of development. You are motivated to develop and optimize cutting edge single cell ribosome profiling techniques and you have affinity with bioinformatics. We are looking for a colleague that meets the following criteria.

• A Master's degree in Biology, if you are within a few months of completing your MSc degree, we also welcome you to apply! Please indicate in your application letter when you are likely to graduate.
• A strong background in at least one but preferentially two of the following areas: Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, or Molecular Biology.
• A strong interest in (or experience with) single-cell RNA-sequencing methods and bioinformatics
• A strong interest in performing in vivo studies in C. elegans.
• Proficiency in academic English, both spoken and written

Conditions of employment

a position for 18 months, with an extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment in the first 18 months;

a gross monthly salary between € 3.059 and €3.881 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));

8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;

a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

Employer: Universiteit Utrecht

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You will work in the group of Dr. Suzan Ruijtenberg in the Developmental Biology division (Department of Biology). The Ruijtenberg group works closely together and shares lab space with the groups of Prof. Sander van den Heuvel, and Prof. Mike Boxem who also primarily use C. elegans as a model system. The group also closely collaborates with the groups of Dr. Saskia Suijkerbuijk and Dr. Luca Braccioli. You will therefore be part of an interdisciplinary and dynamic team of researchers that share many common interests and approaches.