PhD in Multidimensional Analysis of (A)biotic Particles and Immune Responses at UMC Utrecht – Netherlands

Summary

The University Medical Center Utrecht offers a PhD position focused on developing a portable, rapid, multidimensional flow‑cytometry system to characterize inhaled particles such as pollen and microplastics. The project combines biology, engineering, and environmental science to translate laboratory methods into field‑ready technology, aiming to improve environmental monitoring and understand particle‑induced immune responses. The role is a full‑time, temporary PhD contract with a maximum gross salary of €3,217 per month, 36‑hour weeks, and includes holiday allowance, travel compensation, and professional development support. Candidates must hold an MSc, have laboratory research experience, and be fluent in English. The position is based in Utrecht, Netherlands, and reports to research group leader Nienke Vrisekoop.

Key Facts

Position Type	PhD Student/Doctoral Researcher
Discipline	Biological sciences
Research Area	Multidimensional analysis of (a)biotic particles and immune responses
Degree Required	Master's degree (MSc)
Experience	Laboratory research experience
Salary	€3,217.00 gross per month (maximum)
Funding	Not funded by an EU programme
Language	Fluency in English
Deadline	2027-03-21
Required Documents	Curriculum Vitae (CV) with research experience, Cover letter/motivation letter, Academic transcripts and diplomas, MSc degree documentation (completed or near completion), Contact information for academic references, Portfolio or samples of previous research work (if applicable), Letter of recommendation(s) from academic supervisors
Employer Address	Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, Netherlands
Employer Contact	Nienke Vrisekoop, Phone: 088-7553946, Email: [email protected]

About the Project

The project aims to create a portable flow‑cytometry platform for rapid, multidimensional analysis of airborne particles. Phase 1 develops and validates analytical methods using blood cells; Phase 2 adapts the technology to environmental particles, translating laboratory protocols to field‑ready measurements. The work integrates flow cytometry, computational data analysis, engineering, and immunology to deliver a novel system that enhances environmental monitoring and elucidates particle‑immune interactions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop analytical approaches using well‑characterized blood cells
• Validate experimental protocols and optimize detection methods
• Adapt portable flow‑cytometry technology for environmental particle analysis
• Translate laboratory protocols to field‑ready measurements
• Test the system under real‑world environmental conditions
• Perform multidimensional data analysis and statistical evaluation
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary research team
• Document and present experimental results

Required Skills

• Strong interest in novel technology development
• Ability to work across disciplinary boundaries
• Collaborative research mindset
• Effective planning and organization of research work
• Critical evaluation of experimental results
• Analytical thinking and problem‑solving
• Clear written and oral communication in English
• Presentation of scientific data
• Flow cytometry expertise (preferred)
• Cell culture techniques (preferred)
• Microscopy (light, fluorescence, or confocal) (preferred)
• Molecular biology methods (preferred)
• Quantitative data analysis and statistical skills
• Computational biology or bioinformatics (preferred)
• Experience with multiparameter analysis

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a completed or near‑completed MSc in immunology, cellular biology, biophysics, analytical sciences or related fields, who have hands‑on laboratory experience, especially with flow cytometry, cell culture, microscopy or quantitative data analysis, and who are fluent in English. The ideal candidate is motivated, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and capable of independent problem‑solving in a fast‑moving research environment.

Benefits

• Gross monthly salary up to €3,217.00
• 8.3% holiday allowance
• Travel expense compensation
• Career development opportunities
• Professional development support
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art UMC facilities and equipment
• Mentorship and training within a vibrant research community

About the Employer

University Medical Center Utrecht (UMC Utrecht) is a leading academic medical centre in the Netherlands, combining high‑quality patient care, world‑class research facilities, and advanced educational programmes. The institution emphasizes innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and provides state‑of‑the‑art technology for immunology, cellular biology, and biomedical engineering research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 21 March 2027 (UTC).

Is the position funded?

The position offers a gross monthly salary of up to €3,217.00 and includes holiday allowance and travel compensation.

What language proficiency is required?

Fluency in English is required for the research group.

What is the contract type?

The contract is temporary, part of the PhD programme, full‑time (36 hours per week).