PhD Candidate in Early-Life Gut Microbiome-Immune Interaction
Explore how infant gut microbes shape immune development using cutting-edge gut-on-a-chip and omics technologies in an ERC-funded project.
Best for:Best for recent or upcoming MSc graduates in immunology, microbiology, or related fields with curiosity-driven problem-solving skills and an interest in translational microbiome research.
Overview
This PhD position at the University of Amsterdam’s Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences focuses on uncovering the mechanisms by which early-life gut microbiota influence immune development and intestinal health. The candidate will employ advanced gut-on-a-chip technology, organoid models, and omics approaches to investigate microbial species, metabolites, and genes mediating microbiota-immune interactions. The project, funded by an ERC Starting Grant, aims to generate foundational knowledge for future interventions targeting metabolic health. The role involves interdisciplinary collaboration, experimental design, data analysis, and participation in teaching activities for undergraduate and master’s students.
What you'll do
- Conduct research to investigate how maternal factors, infant gut microbiota, and intestinal health interact to shape immune development.
- Design and execute experiments using the Gut-on-a-chip (GUMI) platform and complementary methods to characterize metabolic functions of infant gut microbes.
- Develop and utilize organoid and immune-competent gut-microbe co-culture models to study the effects of early microbial colonization on immune-cell development and gut epithelium.
- Analyze omics and experimental data to identify key bacterial species, metabolites, and genes involved in microbiota-immune interactions.
- Publish findings through scientific papers, conference presentations, and collaborative team efforts.
- Complete a structured PhD training program and contribute to teaching activities for Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
- Complete a PhD thesis within the official appointment duration of four years.
Requirements
Degree required: An MSc degree (or equivalent) in immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field (close to completion is acceptable).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency required for both written and spoken communication
Instruction: English
- Strong written and spoken English communication skills
- Ability to plan and execute experimental work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
- Curiosity-driven approach to solving complex research questions
- Attention to detail in documenting, analyzing, and communicating research results
- No formal eligibility restrictions beyond degree completion (close to completion is acceptable)
- Open to candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-13
Applicants must submit a detailed CV (including monthly work/education details), a letter of motivation, names and email addresses of two references, and transcripts of Bachelor’s and Master’s studies. All documents except the CV should be combined into a single PDF file and submitted online.
- CV with detailed monthly work/education history
- Letter of motivation
- Names and email addresses of two references
- Transcripts of Bachelor’s and Master’s studies
Contact
Dr Jianbo Zhang· Supervisor
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