PhD in Biofabrication, Optogenetics and Synthetic Biology Technologies Utrecht University in Netherlands

Utrecht University is advertising a PhD candidate position in biofabrication, optogenetics, synthetic biology, bioprinting, organoid biology, and vascularization within the Levato research group at the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht.

The project is ERC-funded and focuses on developing new strategies to control vascular cell behavior in complex 3D human tissues and organoid-based engineered tissues, with an initial application in diabetes research. The work combines engineered stem cells, synthetic biology tools, ultra-fast light-based volumetric bioprinting, and advanced tissue engineering approaches to capture and understand healthy and diseased vascular conditions.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in biotechnology, synthetic biology, biology, biomedical engineering, or a related field. Experience in cell engineering, molecular biology, and bioengineering is required, while optogenetics, organoids, gene editing, vascular cell biology, hydrogels, and light-based bioprinting are advantageous. Strong English skills are required.

The position is based in Utrecht, Netherlands, at Utrecht University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine / Department of Clinical Sciences, with collaboration across an international multidisciplinary network and the OMBION Center for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation. The appointment is initially for 12 months and may be extended up to four years to complete the doctorate.

Funding includes a gross monthly salary of €3,059 to €3,881 for full-time employment, plus holiday pay, year-end bonus, pension, and other employment benefits. The application deadline is 23 June 2026.

To apply, submit a CV and motivation letter through the Utrecht University portal. The post also requests contact details for two academic referees.