University of Maastricht
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PhD in Genome Instability, Early Embryogenesis, Genomics and AI at Maastricht University Maastricht University in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Aug 16, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
University of Maastricht

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About this position
Maastricht University in the Netherlands is offering a PhD position on unraveling molecular mechanisms of genome instability in early embryogenesis. The project sits at the intersection of biology, medical science, computational biology, genomics, and artificial intelligence, with a strong focus on reproductive and early-life healthcare.
The PhD candidate will work on a ZonMw-funded project called UnStreZ, aiming to understand why early human embryos are prone to DNA replication stress and genomic instability. The research uses single-cell genomics, whole-genome sequencing, live-cell imaging data, and AI-based computational methods to detect and predict DNA replication defects and mitotic errors in IVF embryos. The broader goal is to improve embryo assessment and ultimately support more successful IVF treatments.
The position is hosted at the Laboratory of Cellular Genomic Medicine in the Department of Clinical Genetics at Maastricht University and Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+). The project team spans three labs across Maastricht University and Utrecht University, with collaboration with Utrecht-based PhD students and international partners. The lab works on clinical-grade sequencing technologies for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), and AI-driven genomic solutions.
Supervision: Dr. Masoud Zamani Esteki, with co-supervision by Dr. Bart Westendorp and Dr. Marta Ruijter-Villani.
Eligibility highlights: a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics, Biomedical Science, Medicine, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field; demonstrated focus on molecular genetics; C1-level English; strong interest in computational genomics or reproductive genetics; proficiency in R and/or Python. Experience with Snakemake/Nextflow, NGS analysis, and image processing is advantageous.
Funding: The position is funded, with a 12-month contract and the prospect of a 3-year extension. Salary ranges from €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month (full-time), plus holiday allowance and year-end bonus. Funded research visits across Europe are also mentioned.
Application deadline: 16 August 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so the position may be filled earlier.
How to apply: Submit your application through AcademicTransfer. Include a CV, a 1-page motivation letter, and at least two references with a short explanation of why you chose them. A presentation and writing assignment are part of the selection process.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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