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PhD Position in Biophysical Origins of RNA Toxicity in Huntington’s Disease Utrecht University in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
Paid PhD position for 18 months initially, with extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment after the first 18 months. Full-time appointment with a gross monthly salary between €3,204 and €4,051 (salary scale P, based on a 38-hour working week), plus 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, flexible employment terms, and additional benefits.
Deadline
Nov 1, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Utrecht University

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About this position
Utrecht University is advertising a PhD position in the biophysical origins of RNA toxicity in Huntington’s disease at the Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry in the Netherlands.
The project investigates how expanded HTT mRNA forms condensates and aggregates and how these RNA species contribute to neuronal toxicity. The work sits at the interface of biophysics, biochemistry, and disease research, with a strong focus on single-molecule experiments, optical tweezers, confocal fluorescence imaging, and novel protein/RNA labeling strategies.
You will work under the mentorship of Prof. Christian Kaiser in the Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry group and within the Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research. The role includes experimental design, data analysis, presenting results, publishing papers, attending conferences, and supporting teaching and mentoring of undergraduate and master’s students.
Eligibility highlights include an MSc degree in (bio)physics, (bio)chemistry, or a related field, experience with wet-lab work and data analysis, strong scientific writing and communication skills, and good English proficiency. Experience with single-molecule methods is a plus.
The position is initially for 18 months and can be extended to a total of four years after successful assessment. It is a full-time paid PhD appointment with a gross monthly salary of €3,204–€4,051, plus holiday pay, year-end bonus, pension, and other employment benefits.
Application deadline: 1 November 2026. Apply through the Utrecht University job portal and include a motivation letter, CV, and contact details for at least two references.
Funding details
Paid PhD position for 18 months initially, with extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment after the first 18 months. Full-time appointment with a gross monthly salary between €3,204 and €4,051 (salary scale P, based on a 38-hour working week), plus 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, flexible employment terms, and additional benefits.
What's required
Applicants should have an MSc degree in (bio)physics, (bio)chemistry, or a related field. Experience with wet lab work and data analysis is required, along with strong scientific writing and communication skills and proficiency in written and spoken English. Experience with single-molecule approaches is not required but is considered a plus.
How to apply
Apply via the university’s “Apply now” button on the Utrecht University job page. Submit a motivation letter, CV, and the names and contact details of at least two references. For questions about the position, contact Prof. Dr. Christian Kaiser by email.
More information can be found here
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