PhD Position in Nutritional Immunology – LipidBRIGHT Doctoral Network Utrecht University in Netherlands

This PhD position in Nutritional Immunology at Utrecht University is part of the LipidBRIGHT European doctoral network, offering a unique opportunity to bridge pharmaceutical and nutritional sciences. The research focuses on using in vitro human mucosal immune models to investigate barrier-immune interactions that drive allergic asthma. Specifically, the project aims to study the efficacy of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) in combination with vitamins A and D as adjunct therapy to corticosteroids, with the goal of protecting against type 2 airway inflammation and improving asthma control.

Low-grade inflammation is increasingly prevalent in western countries, contributing to immune disorders such as autoimmunity and allergies, including asthma, which affects 10% of adults in industrialized nations. While type 2 asthma cannot be cured, it can be managed with inhaled corticosteroids. Many asthmatics have reduced serum levels of n-3 LCPUFA, EPA, and DHA due to low intake or reduced fatty acid desaturase enzyme activity. Additionally, serum vitamin A and D levels are generally low, though these vitamins can promote tolerogenic immune modulation and barrier protection. This project will highlight the relevance of these nutrients in managing pulmonary inflammation and guiding therapy, using advanced human in vitro mucosal-immune cell models.

As a PhD candidate, you will develop bronchial epithelial barrier models and study their interactions with innate and adaptive immune cells, assessing the anti-inflammatory and barrier protective effects of n-3 LCPUFA plus vitamin A/D as adjunct treatment to corticosteroids. You will present your findings at national and international conferences in Nutrition, Allergy, Pulmonary Disease, and Pharmacology, reflecting the broad scientific scope of the project. The position is challenging and highly relevant, actively bridging scientific fields and demonstrating the strength of combining pharmaceutical and nutritional approaches.

The Division of Pharmacology at Utrecht University has extensive experience in Nutritional Immunology, with established expertise in using n-3 LCPUFA for allergy prevention in vitro and in pre-clinical models. The LipidBRIGHT network offers collaboration opportunities with academic and non-academic partners, bridging clinical and basic research on lipids in chronic inflammatory disorders. You will join a collegial and collaborative academic environment with state-of-the-art laboratories and core facilities, conducting research at the forefront of Translational Immunopharmacology and Experimental Pharmacology within the Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS).

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences with training in Immunology, practical experience with immune assays, cell culture, FACS, qPCR, and/or ELISA, and strong scientific writing and communication skills in English. The position is part of an EU Doctoral Network, requiring international mobility; candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months preceding March 1st, 2026.

The offer includes a position for 18 months, extendable to four years upon successful assessment, a gross monthly salary starting at €3,059 and increasing to €3,881, 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, flexible terms of employment, and professional development opportunities. Utrecht University provides a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging personal and professional growth.

To apply, submit a letter of motivation, CV, contact details of at least two references, and academic transcripts for both BSc and MSc. The application deadline is 29 March 2026. For more information, contact Linette Willemsen. Join a team of inspired and knowledgeable PhD candidates, technicians, and staff, and contribute to cutting-edge research in Nutritional Immunology.