PhD Student - Leung group - Hubrecht Institute - Utrecht
Location: Utrecht
Max hours per week: 38.00
Max salary: 3.670
Duration of agreement: 15 months (extend after evaluation)
Apply until: 11/08/2024
A fully-funded PhD position is immediately available in the new research group led by Miguel Leung, which opens at the Hubrecht Institute in October 2024.
What you will be doing
The Leung group uses cellular structural biology approaches to study the form, function, and evolution of highly specialized cells. Current research in our lab revolves around macromolecular assemblies in gametes (sperm and egg cells) and their roles in reproduction and early development. Understanding the fundamental biology of gametes is essential for improving reproductive technologies, both for human health and for biodiversity conservation. Several exciting research lines are available and we will support the PhD student in shaping the project to their own unique skills and interests.
The core techniques in our experimental arsenal are cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), which we integrate with AI-enabled protein structure modelling, mass spectrometry, and light microscopy. We use these methods to solve structures and build molecular models of large multi-protein assemblies either gently isolated from primary cells or imaged directly within the unperturbed cellular environment. In many cases, the precise composition of these assemblies is unknown, so we also develop computational workflows to identify proteins de novo directly from structures. We then use our structural models to inform functional and genetic studies.
For examples of our recent work, please see: Leung et al 2023 (PMID 37327785); Leung et al 2021 (PMID 33694216); Leung et al 2021 (PMID 34737233).
What you will be contributing
We are open to applicants from all life sciences backgrounds, but training in developmental or reproductive biology would be a plus. Prior experience in cryo-EM is not necessary and training will be provided. You will need to have a Master’s degree by the time you join the lab.
What do we offer?
This PhD position is an opportunity to join a young and dynamic group at a critical time. As one of the first lab members, you will play an important role in shaping the group’s culture and research directions. You will start with a 15-month contract, which we will extend up to 4 years after a positive evaluation. The start date is negotiable but would preferably be in early 2025.
Application procedure
To apply for this position, please provide a single PDF containing:
(i) a cover letter clearly describing why you are interested in joining the group, what skills you would bring to the team, and what you hope to get out of your PhD training
(ii) your CV
(iii) names and contact details of 2-3 professional references
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the deadline of November 8th. The first round of interviews will take place online in late November.
Terms of employment
Depending on education and experience the minimum salary is €2.872 and the maximum salary is €3.670 gross per month for a full-time appointment (scale P cao Nederlandse Universiteiten/KNAW). This is exclusive of 8% vacation allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, travel allowance, internet allowance, home working allowance and pension accrual with ABP.
The KNAW offers its staff an excellent package of secondary benefits. A package that meets the different needs of employees depending on their stage of life, lifestyle or career ambitions. For example, by working an extra two hours a week, it is possible to increase the number of days off from 29 to 41 days a year (with full-time employment).
For a complete overview of the terms of employment, please refer to the web page: werken bij de KNAW.
Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct can be part of the employment procedure.
About the Hubrecht Institute
The Hubrecht Institute is a research institute focusing on developmental and stem cell biology. At the institute, more than 20 research groups perform fundamental and multidisciplinary research, both in healthy systems and disease models. The Hubrecht Institute is a research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW) and is located on the Utrecht Science Park ‘De Uithof’. Since 2008, the institute has been affiliated with the University Medical Center Utrecht, advancing the translation of research into clinical practice. The Hubrecht Institute has a partnership with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL).
Diversity & Inclusion
The KNAW considers a working environment in which everyone feels welcome and appreciated of great importance. A working environment in which attention is paid to individual quality and where development opportunities are paramount. Together we strive for an inclusive culture in which we embrace differences. We would therefore like to invite candidates who want to contribute to this through their background and experience. In the event of equal suitability, preference will be given to the candidate who thus enhances diversity within the Academy.
We will not respond to any supplier enquiries based on this job advertisement.
More information
If our science resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the group leader (m.leung@hubrecht.eu) for questions about the lab, the position, or available projects.