Marthe Walvoort

A fully funded 4-year PhD position is available in the Chemical Glycobiology group of Professor Marthe Walvoort at the Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, as part of the NWO-Vidi project 'Healthy sugars for a healthy gut'. The Walvoort group focuses on understanding the structure-activity relationships of carbohydrates, leveraging synthetic chemistry, biochemistry, and microbiology to address fundamental and applied questions in glycobiology. This PhD project aims to develop new chemical synthesis methods for producing a variety of bifidobacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS), which are complex carbohydrates associated with numerous health benefits, including immune modulation, anti-pathogen effects, and gut health. The project addresses the current limitations in obtaining pure EPS samples by creating modular synthetic approaches to generate EPS of different lengths and complexities, as well as novel sugar-nucleotides and glycolipids. The synthesized EPS structures will be tested for their functional effects in intestinal model systems, laying the groundwork for establishing direct links between specific exopolysaccharides and their health-promoting properties. The project is highly interdisciplinary, involving close collaboration with another PhD project focused on enzymatic EPS production within the same NWO-Vidi framework. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment at the University of Groningen, working at the interface of chemistry, biology, and health sciences. The position is fully funded for four years, offering an excellent opportunity for candidates with a strong background in chemistry, particularly those interested in synthetic chemistry, biochemistry, or microbiology. Applicants should hold a Master's degree in a relevant field and demonstrate proficiency in English. Experience with carbohydrate chemistry or interdisciplinary research is a plus. For more information and to apply, visit the application portal linked below. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in chemical glycobiology and to develop new tools for understanding and harnessing the health benefits of complex bacterial glycans.

The University of Groningen is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position in the Chemical Glycobiology group of Prof. Marthe Walvoort, within the Stratingh Institute for Chemistry. The research focuses on the chemical synthesis of complex bacterial glycans, specifically exopolysaccharides produced by bifidobacteria, which are associated with beneficial effects on human health such as immune modulation and gut health. The project aims to develop new chemical synthesis methods to produce a variety of bifidobacterial exopolysaccharides, including novel sugar-nucleotides and glycolipids, using a modular approach to obtain different lengths and complexities. The synthesized structures will be tested for their functional effects in intestinal model systems, contributing to the understanding of structure-activity relationships and laying the foundation for future antibacterial therapies. The position is part of the NWO-Vidi project ‘Healthy sugars for a healthy gut’ and involves close collaboration with another PhD project on enzymatic production of EPS structures, promoting interdisciplinary research. The successful candidate will join a top-tier research group in a vibrant academic environment, with access to extensive personal and professional development opportunities. The Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen is renowned for its interdisciplinary research and inclusive community, with over 7,000 students and 1,400 staff members from around the world. Applicants should have an MSc degree in (synthetic) organic chemistry or equivalent, with a strong experimental background in synthetic organic (carbohydrate) chemistry. Research experience in carbohydrate chemistry is highly valued. Candidates must be highly motivated, able to work in international teams, and possess excellent communication skills. Proficiency in English is required. The position offers a competitive salary, generous vacation allowance, bonuses, and a supportive academic environment. The application deadline is December 2, 2025, and the preferred starting date is March 1, 2026 or later. For more information, contact Associate Professor Marthe Walvoort at [email protected]. To apply, submit a letter of motivation, CV with references, research experience description, and transcripts via the university’s application portal. The selection process includes interviews and assessment, with feedback provided within two weeks of the closing date.