PhD Candidate in Veterinary Sciences

Utrecht University

Institution: Utrecht University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Department: Clinical Sciences (in collaboration with Biomolecular Health Sciences – Clinical Infectiology)
Contract Type: Full-time PhD position (36–40 hours/week)
Duration: 1 year initially, extendable up to 4 years subject to assessment
Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross/month + 8% holiday pay + 8.3% year-end bonus
Application Deadline: 29 March 2026

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Project Overview

• Investigate the equine intestinal microbiome and resistome and their roles in gastrointestinal health and antimicrobial resistance.
• Explore strategies such as faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) to influence the microbiome for positive health effects.
• Work involves laboratory experiments, sample collection from horses, and bioinformatics and sequencing analysis (16S rRNA, shotgun metagenomics, qPCR).
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities at Utrecht University Equine Hospital and Clinical Infectiology Research Group.
• Co-supervision of Master’s and Bachelor’s students as part of the PhD.
• Enrollment in the Utrecht Graduate School of Life Sciences, with structured guidance for research and professional development.

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Candidate Requirements

• Master’s degree in veterinary medicine, microbiology, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Strong interest in molecular microbiology and antimicrobial resistance.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience with bioinformatics analysis is an advantage.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.

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Benefits

• Competitive PhD salary with additional holiday and year-end bonuses.
• Pension scheme and partially paid parental leave.
• Flexible employment terms under CAO NU (Dutch Universities Collective Labour Agreement).
• Opportunities for professional development, leave, sports, and cultural activities.

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How to Apply

• Submit CV and motivation letter via the Utrecht University online application (“Apply now”).
• Contact for further information: Dr. Mathijs Theelen – m.j.p.theelen@uu.nl

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