PhD Candidate in Chemical Biology of Lipid Signaling in Adipocytes
The Department of Molecular Physiology of the Leiden Institute of Chemistry is looking for a PhD candidate to study a novel lipid signaling pathway in adipocytes.
Metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are rising due to sedentary lifestyles and overnutrition. While current treatments improve symptoms, they often fail to address the underlying causes of disease and can lead to serious side effects. There is an urgent need for new therapies that safely target the roots of metabolic dysfunction.
What you will do
This PhD project aims to study a novel lipid signaling pathway in adipocytes, cells specialized in lipid uptake, storage and metabolism, that play a central role in metabolic dysfunction. The candidate will work as part of an interdisciplinary team to characterize the enzymes involved in this lipid signaling pathway, and investigate whether this pathway is pharmacologically tractable. The project combines genetic (CRISPR/Cas9) and chemical (small molecule inhibitors, probes) tools to modulate the pathway and study its effects on adipocyte function.
A successful candidate will gain training in chemical biology, molecular genetics and cell biology, and use physiologically relevant in vitro and in vivo models. The work will be carried out in an interdisciplinary environment, in close collaboration with Dr. M.C. van Eijk (Leiden Institute of Chemistry). The project will be embedded within the Leiden Early Drug Discovery & Development (LED3) network, which will maximize access to learning opportunities, local research networks, and access and facilities.
Candidate Profile
Applications are invited from outstanding graduates who meet the following criteria:
- MSc degree in cell/molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical biology, or equivalent;
- Lab experience including:
- Mammalian cell culture, molecular biology (essential)
- CRISPR/Cas9, proteomics/lipidomics, microscopy (desirable)
- Article 9 accreditation, or willing to acquire this upon appointment;
- Analytical thinking, data analysis, and critical problem-solving skills;
- Commitment to rigorous scientific standards and accurate record keeping;
- Ability to work independently and as a team player in a multidisciplinary environment;
- Proficiency in written and spoken English and excellent communication skills.
Key responsibilities
- Independent research including planning experiments, analyzing and reporting data;
- Participate in lab meetings, departmental work discussions, and external conferences;
- Contribute to writing and publication of manuscripts and grants;
- Supervise BSc and MSc internship projects and contribute to teaching of laboratory classes;
- Complete training in transferrable and scientific skills as outlined in the PhD degree criteria;
- Completion of PhD thesis within 4 years.
Where you will work
What we offer
The position is open and will commence as soon as a suitable candidate is admitted. We offer a position for 12 months and upon satisfactory performance to be extended for three more years. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from €3.059,- to €3.881,- gross per month, depending on experience (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).
Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information, see the website.
Application Process
This position is currently open. The start date is between November 2025 - March 2026.
Applications close October 26th.
Only applications that are submitted through the application portal will be considered.
Please do not email your application.
Please do not apply if you do not have the pre-requisite experience.
When applying, include the following:
- Letter of motivation, including a statement of your qualifications, relevant experience, motivation for applying, and anticipated impact of your contribution to the group;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Transcripts of B.Sc. and M.Sc. (or equivalent), including grades;
- Copy of M.Sc. (or equivalent) thesis or prior publications (if applicable);
- 1-2 letters of reference from former supervisors; including their position, affiliation, and contact information;
- Applications must be in English.
If you have questions about the recruitment process or administration of the PhD position please contact Jessica van Krimpen (j.e.van.krimpen@lic.leidenuniv.nl).
Do you have questions about this position? Please contact Dr. Tom van der Wel (Assistant professor, t.van.der.wel@lic.leidenuniv.nl).
Are you enthusiastic about this vacancy? We are looking forward to getting to know you. You can apply until October 26th using the application button below.