PhD candidate Genetic Susceptibility in Stem Cell-Derived Organoid Safety Testing Leiden University in Netherlands

Leiden University’s Faculty of Science is offering a full-time PhD position in the Division of Cell Systems and Drug Safety on Genetic Susceptibility in Stem Cell-Derived Organoid Safety Testing. The project investigates why people respond differently to harmful substances and why some individuals are more sensitive to organ damage. The focus is on human toxicodynamic variability—how cells from different genetic backgrounds respond to chemical stress—and on how this variability can be integrated into next-generation safety testing.

You will work with human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and primary cells from donors with different genetic backgrounds. Using differentiation into organ-specific cell types and 3D organoids, together with CRISPR technology, the project will study how genetic variants shape cellular responses to chemical exposure. Advanced detection tools will be used to visualize cellular stress responses, helping map how individual background translates into toxicodynamic variability. The project is positioned as a proof of concept for incorporating human diversity into in vitro safety testing and improving risk estimation for chemical safety assessment.

The successful candidate should have an MSc in (Bio)-pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or Biology, and ideally practical experience in human iPSC culture, 3D in vitro systems, molecular and cell biology, gene editing, microscopy, and cell signaling. Interest in bioinformatics is also expected. Strong English communication and scientific writing skills are required, along with enthusiasm, independence, ambition, and the ability to work well in a team.

The appointment is a 4-year, full-time PhD position (38 hours per week) with a salary from €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month, plus holiday and end-of-year bonuses. The PhD student will be embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science and will have access to training courses and research-school offerings. Leiden University highlights its international research environment, strong collaboration across scientific institutes, and location in the Bio Science Park.

Applications close on 2026-08-21. To apply, submit your application online and upload a motivation letter, CV, transcripts of your BSc and MSc studies to date, a copy of your (draft) Master’s thesis, and preferably two reference letters. Quote vacancy number 16775. For enquiries about the project, contact Dr. Marije Niemeijer at [email protected]. For procedural questions, contact the secretariat of the Division of Cell Systems and Drug Safety at [email protected].