PhD Candidate in Lipid Metabolism and Virology
Investigate how viral infections alter lipid metabolism and drive neurodegeneration using advanced mass spectrometry.
Best for:Best for biomedical and analytical chemistry graduates with hands-on mass spectrometry experience interested in virology and metabolism.
Overview
The Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) invites applications for a doctoral candidate position within the MERIT project, focusing on Work Packages 1 and 2. The successful applicant will examine how viral infections modulate lipid biosynthetic pathways in neurons and glial cells, identify affected lipid metabolites, and explore therapeutic targeting. Working within a multidisciplinary team, the researcher will gain extensive training in mass spectrometry and multi-site secondments. Candidates are expected to conduct rigorous laboratory investigations, manage data analysis, and collaborate across partner institutions.
What you'll do
- Investigate how viral infections modulate lipid biosynthetic pathways in neurons and glial cells.
- Identify specific lipid classes, species, and metabolites impacted by viral infections.
- Explore the therapeutic targeting of lipid metabolism to control virus-induced neurodegeneration.
- Participate in planned secondments at Amsterdam University Medical Center and Medical University Innsbruck.
- Engage in network-wide training opportunities, workshops, and professional development programs.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in analytical chemistry, biomedical sciences, or related fields
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; minimum C1/C2 CEFR level
Instruction: English
- Practical experience with mass spectrometry techniques including LC-MS and/or MALDI-MS
- Strong communication and collaborative skills in a multidisciplinary environment
- Must not have resided, carried out work, or studied in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before 1 April 2027
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30
Submit your application through the official application form available on the MERIT project website. Only applications submitted via the designated portal will be considered.
- Application form
Contact
Elena Sánchez López· Researcher
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