PhD Students in Biological Science

VU University of Amsterdam

Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Department/Section: Molecular Microbiology, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE)
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Start date: Flexible
Application deadline: 23 January 2026
Employment type: Full-time PhD (38–40 hours/week)
Duration: Initially 1 year, extendable to 4 years
Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross per month (PhD, depending on year)

Project Overview

The project focuses on understanding how mycobacteria transport large folded proteins via the type VII secretion system (T7SS). This system is crucial for bacterial physiology and virulence. Key aspects include:

• Study of a large membrane complex (33 subunits, 2.3 MDa) in the mycobacterial inner membrane
• Investigation of protein translocation mechanisms and complex assembly
• Integration of wet lab (biochemistry, molecular biology) and dry lab approaches (cryo-EM, AI tools like AlphaFold and BindCraft)
• Characterization of biochemical properties and molecular structure

The candidate will work in a collaborative environment with one other PhD student and a larger research group on mycobacterial secretion systems.

Candidate Profile

Required qualifications:

• MSc in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field (near-graduates encouraged)
• Strong motivation and curiosity-driven approach
• Theoretical knowledge in molecular biology, biochemistry, and protein science
• Interest in membrane proteins and/or structural biology (cryo-EM)
• Affinity for both wet and dry lab methodologies
• Proficiency in English

Desirable qualities:

• Previous experience with structural biology, membrane proteins, or cryo-EM
• Creativity, initiative, and independent working style

Responsibilities

• Isolate and characterize T7SS membrane complexes from different genetic backgrounds
• Perform biochemical analysis and structural characterization using cryo-EM
• Integrate computational modeling and AI-based protein structure predictions
• Contribute to collaborative research within the Molecular Microbiology section and A-LIFE

Working Environment & Benefits

• Vibrant research group (~35 members in collaboration with Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention unit)
• Collaborative environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure in AIMMS
• Attractive fringe benefits: holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, commuting support, cultural and training opportunities
• Inclusive and diverse university community

Application Instructions

Required documents:

• Motivation letter
• CV including education history, Master thesis summary, and other research experience
• Diplomas and certificates
• Contact information of 2 references

Application method: Through the VU Amsterdam recruitment system only
Contact person: Catalin Bunduc, Universitair docent — catalin.bunduc@vu.nl

Deadline: 23 January 2026

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