Teaser Text
The drug-metabolizing capacity of individuals is determined by the interplay between genetic and environmental factors. With the rise in clinical application of pharmacogenetics-based prescribing, it becomes also increasingly important to consider how non-genetic factors, like concomitant medication use and co-morbidities, together impact genetically predicted drug-metabolizing phenotypes (phenoconversion).
Within this project we aim to improve our understanding of the impact and mechanisms of phenoconversion in clinical practice. Moreover, we aim to evaluate how advanced in-vitro models, endogenous biomarkers and physiology-based pharmacokinetic modelling can be used for a more holistic prediction of drug- and/or disease-induced phenoconversion.
The project offers a unique shared position (50/50%) between the department of Clinical Pharmacy and Toxicology (KFT) at the Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC) and the division Systems Pharmacology and Pharmacy of the LACDR. Candidates will be trained at both research institutes and will thus unite pre-clinical and clinical research into one unique position.
What you will do
- Conduct original, novel, and collaborative (pre)clinical laboratory research in the framework of the project and complete your PhD thesis within 4 years;
- Publish scientific articles in international peer-review journals;
- Present results at (inter)national conferences;
- Supervise research internships of students of the Master’s programs from Pharmacy and/or Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences;
- Follow PhD courses based on an individual training and supervision plan.
What you bring
This position is a good fit for you if you recognise yourself in the following:
- M.Sc. degree in Pharmacy or (Bio)Pharmaceutical Sciences with evident experimental training;
- Clear interest in computational pharmacological modelling;
- Ability to work independently and as a team player within a multidisciplinary cross-departmental environment;
- Full proficiency in English (provide an IELTS/TOEFL score if available);
- Excellent communication skills;
- Hands-on experience with LC-MS is preferred
Where you will work
What we offer
We offer a full-time appointment of initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the research, teaching evaluations, personal capabilities and compatibility, the appointment will be extended for another three years. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from € 3.059,- per month in the first year to € 3.881,- gross per month in the fourth year based on a full-time position (pay scale P).
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 program. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information, see the website: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions.
All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.
What we find important
Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups. LACDR is a highly diverse institute, in culture, background, and gender. We stand for excellence in a caring Institute. We wish to reflect society in all aspects, as we believe that this improves the dynamics in our organization. Therefore, we support and understand the need for a work/life/family balance and consequent varying working hours and places. We believe that doing good science is fun and goes hand in hand with a friendly culture.
Want to apply or find out more?
Enquiries can be made to Dr. M.L.Manson (m.l.manson@lacdr.leidenuniv.nl) or Prof. dr. Jesse Swen (j.j.swen@lumc.nl).
To apply for this vacancy, please submit your application online via the blue button below. Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents (in pdf format) quoting the vacancy number:
- Curriculum vitae
- Motivation letter (maximum one page), explaining how your experience and interests match with this PhD project.
- Contact information of at least three potential references, including your previous supervisor(s)
Candidates will be invited for an interview. An assessment of writing skills is part of the application process.
Only applications received before 4 November 2025 can be considered.