Postdoc Position in Biology

Utrecht University

Institution: Utrecht University, Faculty of Science
Department: Department of Biology, Institute of Biodynamics and Biocomplexity
Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
Contract Type: Fixed-term postdoc, initially 1 year with extension up to 3 years
Hours: 36–40 hours/week
Application Deadline: 12 January 2026
Contact: Tuncay Baubec – t.baubec@uu.nl

Project Overview

• Study epigenetic regulation of transcription through manipulation of histone and DNA modifications.
• Investigate how chromatin marks influence gene expression and transcriptional outcomes.
• Approaches may include:
  • Epigenome engineering in embryonic stem cells.
  • Analysis of changes in epigenetic landscapes and transcription.
  • Engineering synthetic chromatin states.
• Opportunity to develop new research directions within the lab’s systems biology framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments in chromatin biology, gene regulation, and epigenetics.
• Utilize molecular cloning, cell engineering, genomics, and computational analyses.
• Collaborate with the lab and contribute to publications and presentations.
• Develop and propose new experimental approaches or projects.

Candidate Profile

• PhD (completed or near completion) in chromatin biology, gene regulation, or related field.
• Strong track record of first/co-author publications or preprints.
• Experience with cell engineering, molecular cloning, genomics, and computational workflows.
• Independent yet collaborative, with excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Offer / Benefits

• Full-time postdoc (1.0 FTE), 1-year contract with possible 2-year extension.
• Gross monthly salary: €3,546 – €5,538 (CAO NU, scale 10).
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus.
• Pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible working arrangements.
• Professional development, leave options, sports & cultural activities.

Application

• Submit via Utrecht University application portal:
  • Motivation letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information of at least two references
• Deadline: 12 January 2026

This position is ideal for researchers with a strong background in epigenetics and chromatin biology, with expertise in experimental and computational approaches. It offers the opportunity to work in a highly interdisciplinary, collaborative, and cutting-edge systems biology lab.

Apply