PhD position in Biomolecular Research at the University of Twente

Advance understanding of onset and spread of Parkinson’s disease using innovative cell studies and advanced microscopy; join our multidisciplinary team at the University of Twente, The Netherlands for an exciting project. Ideal candidates have a Master's in Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology or a related field, with a passion for biomolecule research and an interest in innovative microscopy.

Join the NBP group, a multidisciplinary team at the University of Twente, where physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine converge. We are dedicated to understanding intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and their roles in biological processes. Our focus is on the study of IDPs in the context of Parkinson's disease, using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. We offer a collaborative, supportive, and professional working environment, encouraging interactions among our diverse team members, including PhD students, research technicians, and principal investigators.

Parkinson’s disease (PD), often associated with a-synuclein (aS) pathology, is not typically familial, suggesting non-genetic factors in its development. Epidemiological studies hint at external factors like virus infections and exposure to certain chemicals as potential risks. However, the molecular mechanisms behind these correlations remain elusive.

This project seeks to establish a molecular link between risk factors and the initiation of  aS aggregation and the spread of the pathology from cell to cell in neuronal cell models. Building on recent discoveries, we aim to explore how a singular event, such as exposure to virus proteins, can trigger aS aggregation. Using cutting-edge microscopy and spectroscopy, we will investigate this initial trigger and its cascading effects, potentially offering new insights into PD development and intervention strategies.

Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before 5 April 2024, and include:

• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position.
• A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications and references.
• An IELTS-test, Internet TOEFL test (TOEFL-iBT), or a Cambridge CAE-C (CPE). Applicants with a non-Dutch qualification and who have not had secondary and tertiary education in English can only be admitted with an IELTS-test showing a total band score of at least 6.5, internet. TOEFL test (TOEFL-iBT) showing a score of at least 90, or a Cambridge CAE-C (CPE).

For more information regarding this position, you are welcome to contact
Mireille Claessens

[email protected]

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.