PhD: Mechanisms of HIV-induced neurodegeneration
Study HIV-induced neurodegeneration and metabolic reprogramming using human brain organoids within the EU MERIT MSCA doctoral network.
Best for:Best for graduate students in biomedical sciences or cell biology with a strong background in molecular biology, virology, or 3D cell culture.
Overview
Amsterdam UMC is offering a 4-year PhD position focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) as part of the EU-funded MSCA training programme MERIT. Working within the OrganoVIR Labs, the doctoral candidate will investigate lipidomic profile changes and TDP-43 proteinopathy using iPSC-derived microglia-embedded brain organoids. The project involves close collaboration across multiple European academic institutions and industry partners, including planned research secondments. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in advanced methodologies, biosecurity, and entrepreneurial skills while contributing to pioneering translational research.
What you'll do
- Characterise lipidomic profiles of HIV-infected brain organoids compared to healthy controls
- Assess and alter TDP-43 proteinopathy in human brain organoids following infection
- Conduct experimental laboratory work utilizing iPSC-derived microglia-embedded brain organoids
- Participate in planned secondments at partner institutions such as ICGEB and LUMC
- Engage in network-wide training events, pre-MBA entrepreneurship courses, and workshops
- Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team across academic and industrial partners
Requirements
Degree required: MSc or MD in biomedical sciences, biology, cell biology, biotechnology, or a closely related field (or close to completion)
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; minimum C1/C2 CEFR level oral and written proficiency
Instruction: English
- Solid foundation in molecular and cellular biology as well as immunology
- Practical expertise in virology, 3D cell culture, or tissue engineering
- Hands-on experience with relevant experimental laboratory techniques
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
- Must not have resided or carried out main activity in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before 1 April 2027 (MSCA mobility rule)
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30
Applicants must submit their application materials through the online portal provided on the MERIT programme website before the stated deadline. Late submissions will not be reviewed.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
Contact
Adithya Sridhar· Assistant Professor
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