PhD in Regulatory Innovation (Animal-Free Drug Development) at Utrecht University Utrecht University in Netherlands

Utrecht University is advertising a PhD in Regulatory Innovation (Animal-Free Drug Development) within the Faculty of Science, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. The project sits in the division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology and is linked to Ombion (Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation), a national programme focused on accelerating the transition to animal-free biomedical innovations.

This PhD is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of regulatory science, pharmaceutical policy, ethics, science-policy interface, and animal-free innovation. The research examines how New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) can become the standard in drug development by studying regulatory systems, qualification procedures, evidence needs, stakeholder dynamics, and institutional or cultural barriers. Potential topics include the level of evidence regulators need from NAMs, how scientists and companies adopt animal-free methods, confidence in NAM-generated data, transferability between chemical and medicinal product assessment, and the use of tools such as a Regulatory Dashboard.

The position is based at Utrecht University in the Netherlands and is supervised/connected with Prof. dr. Marieke de Bruin. The post emphasizes interdisciplinary work across science, policy, and practice, with engagement across researchers, risk assessors, companies, and policymakers. The university highlights strong collaboration, professional development, and a research environment focused on life sciences and societal impact.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a master’s degree in biomedical sciences, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, toxicology, innovation sciences, or a comparable relevant field. Strong analytical skills, clear English communication, structured working methods, initiative, and motivation to learn new methods are expected. Experience with stakeholder engagement, policy translation, and ethical/societal aspects of drug development is an advantage.

Funding: the PhD is fully funded for four years, with a gross monthly salary starting at €3,059 and rising to €3,881 in the fourth year, plus holiday pay and year-end bonus. The initial appointment is for 18 months, with extension to four years after positive assessment.

Application deadline: 17 May 2026. Applicants should submit a motivation letter and CV through the Utrecht University application portal.