MSCA Doctoral student in Medical Science- Next generation molecular diagnostics

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 58 000 students and 6800 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

Doctoral position in Medical Science

Project title: Development of nucleic acids-based technologies for clinical diagnostics

The Department of Laboratory Medicine is located at the Institute of Biomedicine at the Faculty of Medicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg.

Duties   

Doctoral education in Medical Science comprises carrying out a scientific project and completing at least 30 credits of courses at third-cycle level. The doctoral student must also write a scientific compilation thesis or monograph corresponding to at least 120 credits. For more information about third-cycle studies at Sahlgrenska Academy, see https://www.gu.se/en/sahlgrenska-akademin/doctoral-studies

Project: Cancer is one of the most common diseases that affect individuals at all ages and treatment usually includes a combination of therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Despite improvements in treatments, they are often long-lasting and associated with severe side effects. Hence, it is important to adjust the therapy to each patient at individual level. Today, it is challenging to monitor the treatment efficacy in detail and at an early stage detect tumor relapse and other complications, such as infections. These issues are possible to address by analyzing cell-free DNA and RNA in blood collected from patients. These analyses will provide information about disease status, how therapies affect tumor cells and if treatments should be changed or maybe stopped.

Contact information 

For more information about the project please contact principal supervisor,
Anders Ståhlberg, Professor, Institute of Biomedicine
e-mail: anders.stahlberg@gu.se

For more information about our research, see: https://www.gu.se/en/research/anders-stahlberg

---

PhD Fellowship for 9 Programs in Science, Engineering, and Technology

Westlake University is a new type of high-quality research-oriented university based in the historic city of Hangzhou, China. Our university was founded by prominent globally respected scientists and scholars. At Westlake, we emphasize academic freedom, research excellence, interdisciplinary engagement, and international collaboration. We are committed to building a truly international, world-class, research-oriented university.

Westlake has four schools: the School of Life Sciences, the School of Science, the School of Engineering, and the School of Medicine. Each school features cutting-edge research facilities and extensive research opportunities in key national, provincial, and municipal laboratories. Ph.D. programs at Westlake University actively promote cross-disciplinary research and there are ample opportunities to combine research interests from other Ph.D. programs or from any of the four schools' program research fields.

There are currently nine Ph.D. programs available to international applicants.

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Quantitative Biology and Complex Systems
• Electronic Science and Technology
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Information Technology in Artificial Intelligence
• Sustainability Science and Technology
• Mathematics

Eligibility:

• Applicants to the Ph.D. in Mathematics program can apply with a master's degree in a related field.
• Applicants to all other programs can apply if they have completed a bachelor’s or master’s program in a related field.
• Applications are open to candidates from all nationalities.

For more details and to apply, please visit:

https://en.westlake.edu.cn/admissions/graduate/#Overview?International_Applicants

For inquiries please contact:

Derek Meyer

Senior Manager of International Affairs

Email: derek@westlake.edu.cn

---

PhD Position in Food Allergy and the Gut-Brain Immune Axis

Project summary

Growing evidence suggests that allergic immune responses in the gut can influence the brain, but how these signals are transmitted and whether they contribute to brain disorders remains unclear. This project will explore how food allergy during early life alters the gut microbiota, reprograms immune cells, and promotes their trafficking to the brain, ultimately triggering neuroinflammation.

The PhD student will focus on characterizing immune cell responses in food allergy models and their impact on brain immunity. In close collaboration with experts in food allergy, neuroimmunology, and computational biology, the student will also contribute to the integration of experimental findings with spatial and systems-level analyses of inflammation along the gut–brain axis.

Position

The Computational Neurobiology group (Dr. Valeriya Malysheva), Gut-Immune-Brain Axis Lab (Dr. Seppe De Schepper) at the VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, and the incoming lab of Dr. Javier Aguilera Lizarraga at the Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante (IN, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Spain), are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join a collaborative and interdisciplinary project. The project investigates how food allergy affects gut-brain communication and function.

Profile

We are looking for a talented and curious individual with:

• A Master’s degree in immunology, neuroscience, molecular biology, or related disciplines
• FELASA certification
• Experience with or highly interested in experimental immunology (e.g. in vivo models, flow cytometry, imaging)
• Motivation to learn and apply computational biology/bioinformatics approaches (training will be provided). Some background in programming is therefore highly desired
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English

For more information: please contact valeriya.malysheva@vib.be or Sebastiaan.DeSchepper@vib.be

Apply here

---

Posted on December 29, 2025

Doctoral (PhD) student position in Data-driven precision medicine and diagnostics

Data-driven precision medicine and diagnostics encompasses data integration, analysis, visualization and data interpretation for patient stratification, discovery of biomarkers for disease risk, diagnosis, drug response and health monitoring. Research in precision medicine is expected to use existing strong assets in Sweden and abroad, such as molecular data (e.g. omics), imaging techniques, electronic healthcare data, longitudinal patient and population registries and biobanks.

This PhD project employs advanced network analysis and Large Language Models to develop predictive models for MS progression. It involves constructing and analyzing a complex network that integrates omic, genotypic, and clinical datasets. You will spend most of your time on computational tasks, developing and applying methods for handling, quality control, and analysis of extensive datasets. You will be supervised researchers who collectively offer expertise in computational biology, genetics, epidemiology, and machine learning. The research will be closely linked to the WISDOM project, an EU-funded initiative coordinated by the main supervisor. Additionally, the doctoral project will be conducted within the Data-driven Life Sciences Research School. This PhD project uses advanced network analysis combined with Large Language Models (LLMs) to develop robust predictive models for MS progression.

Eligibility requirements for doctoral education

In order to participate in the selection for a doctoral position, you must meet the following general (A) and specific (B) eligibility requirements at latest by the application deadline.

It is your responsibility to certify eligibility by following the instructions on the web page Entry requirements (eligibility) for doctoral education.

A) General eligibility requirement

You meet the general eligibility requirement for doctoral/third-cycle/PhD education if you:

1. have been awarded a second-cycle/advanced/master qualification (i.e. master degree), or
2. have satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the advanced/second-cycle/master level, or
3. have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.*

Follow the instructions on the web page Entry requirements (eligibility) for doctoral education.

Skills and personal qualities

We are seeking an intelligent, creative, hardworking, and enthusiastic team player for this project. The PhD student is expected to participate in statistical analysis, the design, development, and implementation of computational methods, as well as scientific writing and presentations. In addition, the doctoral student will attend postgraduate courses and participate in the activities of the DDLS graduate school.

Applicants must be deeply interested in computational medicine research and possess a master’s degree in computational biology, Data Science, Bioinformatics, or related fields. Familiarity with basic concepts of statistical analysis is required. Strong programming skills in Python, R and Linux-based software or similar languages and experience with modern machine learning and deep learning frameworks parallel computing using clusters like UPPMAX and GPUs for high-performance computing and parallel computing using clusters like UPPMAX and GPUs for high-performance computing  are essential.

Last application date 31.Jan.2026

For details click here

---

Doctoral positions at International Max Planck Research School for Biology and Computation

We seek exceptional graduates worldwide and are thrilled to offer them the ideal environment for advancing their scientific careers. The International Max Planck Research School for Biology and Computation (IMPRS-BAC) graduate program provides interdisciplinary training for doctoral candidates at the intersection of molecular life sciences and computational sciences. This program offers comprehensive perspectives and mentorship in both experimental and computational fields, catering to graduates in molecular biology, biochemistry, mathematics, bioinformatics, and related disciplines.

If you possess a strong understanding of genome science and a passion for areas like epigenetics, developmental biology, gene regulation, RNA biology, mechanobiology, protein biochemistry, stem cells, bioinformatics, sequence analysis, mathematics, statistics, molecular evolution, or biophysics, and wish to work at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics or Freie Universität Berlin, this doctoral program is your ideal pathway!

The International Max Planck Research School for Biology and Computation is a collaboration between Freie Universität Berlin (Department of Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy; Department of Mathematics and Computer Science) and Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics.

 

You have:

• an above-average master's or comparable degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, mathematics, bioinformatics or any related disciplines, awarded by October 2026;
• some experience with computational or biological research;
• knowledge in biology or computation, with a willingness to gain the other;
• very good written and spoken English

Timeline:

• Apply by the 7^th of January 2026 (18:00 CET) via our application portal
• Short-listed candidates are invited to Berlin for interviews between the 23rd and 25th of March 2026.
• Successful candidates start their doctorate between May and November 2026.

Application:

Please prepare your CV and motivation letter, your academic record, a research proposal and the name of two referees willing to provide references, then apply by the 7th of January 2026 via our application portal. Check our website and FAQ for more information.

Contact: Dr. Anne-Dominique Gindrat (imprs-bac@molgen.mpg.de)

---

PhD fellowship in cancer research

A fully funded three-year full-time PhD fellowship in cancer research is available at the Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo.

Oslo University Hospital

Oslo University Hospital is Norway’s largest hospital with over 20 000 employees. It is the local hospital for most of Oslo’s population and has highly specialized care at a national level. The Department of Pathology is one out of seven departments within the Division of Laboratory medicine. It is the largest pathology department in Norway, with over 300 employees. The Department has a strong research section that is organized in seven research groups. Current research topics address cancer, immunopathology, inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases.

The position is available from May 1^st 2026, but both a later and earlier startup date is possible. Dr. Håvard Lindholm is principal investigator of the study. The position will be located in the laboratory of Professor Frode Jahnsen (jahnsenlab.org) in the Department of Pathology at Oslo University Hopsital, Rikshospitalet.

This is a collaborative project between the Jahnsen team, the group of professor Hege Elisabeth Giercksky Russnes at Oslo University Hospital and the group of Professor Daniel De Carvalho at Princess Marget Cancer Centre in Toronto, Canada. All research groups are internationally leading experts in immunology, cancer, and bioinformatics.

The project aims to explore how antiviral defense pathways can be harnessed to kill breast cancer cells. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women and novel therapies are needed to improve disease outcomes. We will sequence RNA from a cohort of more than 300 breast cancer patients, explore the activation mechanism of antiviral defense pathways in cell cultures and perform bioinformatics analysis of data. The work will be performed in a modern molecular biology lab with access to specialized equipment such as a P2 solo instrument which will be used to perform Oxford Nanopore Sequencing on site. We also have access to computational clusters which can be used for analysis.

The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must hold an MsC degree in biology, immunology, medicine, bioinformatics, computational biology, informatics or a related field. Experience in molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with library preparation, cell culture and/or synthesis of RNA is a plus.
• Experience in bioinformatics. Knowledge of Python and analysis of sequencing data is a plus.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English.

For details click here

---

Posted on December 22, 2025

5 PhD student positions in the computational, mathematical & experimental plant sciences

Our International Max Planck Research School on Interdisciplinary Plant Biology is a local collaboration between the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research and the University of Cologne, Germany. International students are closely supervised by an advisory committee, receive training in professional skills and are supported to share their scientific insights. All training is in English.

The research

The mission of our IMPRS is to study fundamental biological processes in plants and to create knowledge and material that can empower innovative plant breeding. More than 30 research groups study regulatory networks controlling fundamental traits such as reproductive development, organ geometry and growth, innate immunity and microbiome effects on plant performance. They apply and develop a broad range of interdisciplinary technologies ranging from genetics and genomics to structural biochemistry, advanced imaging and computational and mathematical modelling in various plant species. All available projects are detailed at www.mpipz.mpg.de/imprs/proposals where applicants will also find more information about the host groups.

Your profile

You are a highly qualified and motivated student from any nationality and hold, or expect to hold, a Master’s degree in a related subject. You have a proved track record of academic and research excellence and are fluent in written and spoken English.

Our offer

We provide an excellent, international and interdisciplinary research environment with state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned faculty. Positions are fully funded for 3 years with possible extension. Salary is based upon the framework of a Max Planck Society doctoral funding contract (TVöD 13, 65%). We are committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in the workforce and encourage applications from such qualified individuals. Further, we seek to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourage women to apply.

Your application

• Apply online by January 5^th 2026 at gradschool.mpipz.mpg.de
• Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews on March 23^rd–26^th 2026
• Selected applicants will start the PhD between summer and October 1^st 2026

Contact

• Dr. Monika Schlosser (IMPRS coordinator) at gradschool@mpipz.mpg.de
• Find more details at www.mpipz.mpg.de/imprs/

---

PhD positions in Quantitative Biology and Complex Systems/ Biology

Westlake University is a new type of high-quality research-oriented university based in the historic city of Hangzhou, China. Our university was founded by prominent globally respected scientists and scholars. At Westlake, we emphasize academic freedom, research excellence, interdisciplinary engagement, and international collaboration. We are committed to building a truly international, world-class, research-oriented university.

Westlake has four schools: the School of Life Sciences, the School of Science, the School of Engineering, and the School of Medicine. Each school features cutting-edge research facilities and extensive research opportunities in key national, provincial, and municipal laboratories. Ph.D. programs at Westlake University actively promote cross-disciplinary research and there are ample opportunities to combine research interests from other Ph.D. programs or from any of the four schools' program research fields.

There are currently nine Ph.D. programs available to international applicants.

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Quantitative Biology and Complex Systems
• Electronic Science and Technology
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Information Technology in Artificial Intelligence
• Sustainability Science and Technology
• Mathematics

Eligibility:

• Applicants to the Ph.D. in Mathematics program can apply with a master's degree in a related field.
• Applicants to all other programs can apply if they have completed a bachelor’s or master’s program in a related field.
• Applications are open to candidates from all nationalities.

For more details and to apply, please visit:

https://en.westlake.edu.cn/admissions/graduate/#Overview?International_Applicants

For inquiries please contact:

Derek Meyer

Senior Manager of International Affairs

Email: derek@westlake.edu.cn

---

PhD positions in Genome Science

Candidates (m/f/d) are invited to apply for PhD positions in the International Max Planck Research School for Genome Science (IMPRS-GS) and the DFG Research Training Group GönomiX, jointly offering competitive, interdisciplinary projects at the interface of molecular genetics, development, evolution and bioinformatics. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in experimental life sciences, mathematics, computer science, statistics, physics, or a closely related field. Students expected to complete their Master’s degree before October 2026 are also eligible to apply. The official language of both programs is English. Admission decisions will be based on academic excellence, research experience, motivation, communication skills, proficiency in English, and the ability to think creatively and broadly across disciplines. For detailed information about research projects and principal investigators (PIs), please visit:

All positions are fully funded. Funding is typically provided through employment contracts offered by the host research group or department, with a net monthly salary of approximately €1,300–1,600. For further details on PhD funding and working conditions in Germany, please refer to: research in Germany.

Application

The application tool is available until January 14, 2026. (link to application tool and registration)

Complete application will include:

1. online registration, with pdf documents to be uploaded
2. a statement from two referees

---

Posted on December 17, 2025

PhD position Metabolic microbiome modelling

The Research Group Medical Systems Biology at the Institute of Experimental Medicine uses systems biological approaches incorporating a large variety of molecular data sets to gain a deeper understanding of the role of the microbiome in host health as well as disease and how it can be used as a therapeutic target to treat human diseases. In this context, one key methodology that we are using are constraint-based metabolic modelling approaches.

Start in our Team

We are looking for professional and competent support to start as soon as possible, limited for 3 years with the possibility of a further extension.

What we offer:

• The salary will be based on the German E13 TV-L scale (75%), if terms and conditions under collective bargaining law are fulfilled
• Part-time employment currently 28,75 hours/week
• A family-friendly working environment, with a commitment to improving work-life balance
• You will have access to a variety of programs supporting PhD students at Kiel University also including diverse soft-skill courses
• You can find more attractive UKSH benefits.

Your role:

• In this interdisciplinary project, you will integrate large-scale microbiome, transcriptomic, metabolomic, and genomic data to explore metabolic interactions in gut bacterial communities
• Your main goal will be to reveal the “dark matter” of unknown cross-feeding interactions in the minimal model microbiome SIHUMIx and to understand how these connections influence which species thrive
• Using experimental data from our partner lab (Martin von Bergen, UFZ Leipzig), you will build a computational model of SIHUMIx to predict new interactions and how the community reacts to disturbances—predictions that will later be tested in bioreactor experiments

Your profile:

• We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student with a background in bioinformatics, systems biology, molecular biology, or a related field
• You should have strong programming skills (preferably in R and Python) and familiarity with Linux
• Experience in constraint-based metabolic modeling, next-generation sequencing data analysis (RNA-Seq, scRNA-Seq, metagenomics), and statistics is essential
• Given the international nature of our research group, excellent communication skills in English are required

We are looking forward to your application. Please submit your application until January 7th, 2026 indicating the reference number 27635.

For details click here

---

PhD position in Structural analysis of membrane proteins

A PhD position is available in the lab "Structure and Function of Membrane Proteins” at the VIB-VUB Center for Structural Biology in Brussels, Belgium. The project focuses on the structural elucidation of membrane protein complexes and integrates fundamental cell biology and structural biology by cryo- electron microscopy.

The lab has a strong track record in investigating scramblases and their role in membrane remodeling. It also aims to deepen the mechanistic understanding of solute transport in ion channels and transporters of medical relevance.

We apply state of the art methods for the purification of fragile membrane protein complexes, either from cultured mammalian cells or from native sources. These complexes are studied through tailored biochemical, biophysical, and cell biological assays, including liposome preparations and confocal microscopy.

Profile

Candidates must hold a Master’s in biochemistry, biophysics or related fields. A keen interest in eukaryotic cell biology, membrane proteins and structural biology is essential. The ability to work organized and independently with excellent communication skills is mandatory as well as proficiency in written and spoken English. Previous experience in mammalian cell culture, structural biology (cryo-EM) or membrane protein purification will be preferred. Candidates should demonstrate a strong motivation and commitment to solve scientific problems and a curiosity-driven approach in their work.

For further information visit https://brunnerlab.sites.vib.b... and contact Prof. Janine Brunner (janine.brunner@vub.be).

---

PhD candidate in Machine Learning of Large-scale in vivo Perturbational Omics

We are seeking a motivated new PhD candidate who wants to join an exciting collaborative research program within the VIB-Center for Inflammation Research between the Guilliams and Saelens team.

Research Project

In this research project you will develop probabilistic deep-learning models that automatically extract biological and statistical knowledge from in vivo perturbational omics data. We have developed in vivo single-cell CRISPR technologies to screen for dozens of molecular factors in vivo during developmental and disease. These technologies are a game-changer in the speed, scale and resolution in which in vivo pathways of immune cells can be unraveled. Furthermore, it provides a goldmine for training causal machine learning models to move towards precision medicine.

Profile

• Master’s in software engineering, computer science, data science, bioengineering, bioinformatics, engineering, physics or related
• Experience in either machine learning or computational biology. Interest in both.
• Programming experience in Python.
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.
• Collaborative personality with attention for detail.

For more information, you are welcome to contact Prof. Wouter Saelens (wouter.saelens@ugent.be) or Prof. Martin Guilliams (martin.guilliams@ugent.be)

For details click here

---

PhD Student in Palaeoproteomics

At the University of Vienna almost 11,000 personalities work together towards answering the big questions of the future. Around 7,700 of them do research and teaching, around 3,000 work in administration and organisation. We are looking for a PhD Student in Evolutionary Anthropology (with a focus on Palaeoproteomics).

The Department of Evolutionary Anthropology at the Faculty of Life Sciences seeks to appoint a pre-doctoral researcher with expertise in archaeology/archaeological science and to work with Associate Professor Katerina Douka (https://doukalab.univie.ac.at/) on a research project supported by the European Research Council. They will be part of a leading international team of researchers in the department working across the fields of Human Evolution, Ancient DNA and Archaeological Science. This is a non-renewable 3-year position.

Your Responsibilities:

• Recording and sampling of archaeological material for scientific analysis (proteomics, ancient DNA, radiocarbon) from archaeological sites;
• Performing scientific analyses such as ZooMS and dating
• Traveling to the field, liaising with field-based teams of researchers in several different countries in Africa where the research will be based;
• Collaborating with colleagues in the Department of Evolutionary Anthropology on a range of applied projects incorporating aspects of archaeological science, proteomics, genetics and dating;
• Writing and preparing scientific reports and journal articles and present conference papers and posters;
• Representing the group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone

Essential selection criteria

• A relevant Bachelor and Masters degree in archaeology, prehistoric archaeology, zooarchaeology, or biomolecular archaeology;
• Interest in gaining hands-on expertise in biomolecular archaeology, especially ZooMS, radiocarbon and stable isotope analyses;
• Ability to travel and spend parts of the studentship in the field/museums and the laboratory;
• Strong interest in prehistoric archaeology (Palaeolithic/Stone Age);
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write reports, write publications, and present results to research meetings;
• Fluency in English

Application deadline: 09.01.2026

Apply here

---

Posted on December 10, 2025

Marie-Curie PhD Studentship in MetaExplore: Functional metagenomics

PhD Studentship - Marie Curie network MetaExplore: Functional metagenomics - novel biocatalysts for a sustainable circular economy from ultrahigh throughput screening.

A doctoral position is available for 3-years to work with Florian Hollfelder at the Biochemistry Department of Cambridge University (https://hollfelder.bioc.cam.ac.uk/). The project is part of the Horizon Europe Eu Marie Curie Network MetaExplore (www.metaexplore.eu/) and involves collaborations with various EU and UK groups on harnessing environmental sources for novel biocatalysts that may play a role in future sustainable processes with higher resource and energy efficiency.

We will develop ultrahigh throughput assays to screen metagenomic libraries for new catalysts for applications in recycling, bioremediation and green chemistry. Candidate enzymes are mechanistically investigated, structurally characterised and subsequently improved by directed evolution. Ultrahigh-throughput screening in microfluidic picoliter droplets allows us to interrogate enzyme libraries with more than 10 million members experimentally in a day, increasing the chances of success in catalyst discovery.

Applicants should thus have a first (or upper second) class degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a related, relevant subject. Familiarity with molecular and chemical biology techniques and specific skills in assay development, enzyme kinetics, DNA library generation, structural biology, organic synthesis, high-throughput screening, mechanistic enzymology, bioinformatics and microfluidic engineering are advantages.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available from 1st February 2026 until 31st January 2029, in the first instance.

For queries regarding the application process, please contact the Biochemistry HR Team via: personnel@bioc.cam.ac.uk

For details click here

---

PhD positions in Microbiology

We are excited to invite applicants with a strong interest for interdisciplinary research in modern microbiology to apply for fully funded PhD positions at the International Max Planck Research School Principles of Microbial Life.

Applicants (m/f/d) should hold an MSc degree or equivalent in biology, biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, chemistry, chemical biology, physics, biophysics or another relevant field.

The International Max Planck Research School Principles of Microbial Life is a joint initiative of the University of Marburg, the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology and the Center for Synthetic Microbiology. More than 30 research group leaders participate in the program and cover research in

Cellular organization & architecture, Microbial communities & host-microbe interactions, Natural products & chemical biology, Physical biology, Physiology & metabolism, Signal transduction & information processing, Systems & synthetic biology

We offer

• A research project in a vibrant, international research community
• Mentoring by world-class scientists through a thesis advisory committee
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities
• Structured interdisciplinary training program which includes lectures, seminars,  scientific and transferable skill workshops, attendance to retreats and conferences
• Salary based on the collective agreement for the civil service in Germany (TVöD), which includes health and social insurance coverage
• Assistance service for international researchers.

Deadline for applying is January 31, 2026. Apply directly via the online application system.

Accepted candidates can start their PhD projects already in the summer of 2026. The PhD program starts in October 2026.

---

PhD Position in Biophysics

The Institute for X-ray Physics of the University of Göttingen welcomes applications for a PhD Position (f, m, d) starting as soon as possible. The salary is based on TV-L E13 (75 %, currently 29.85 hours/week). The position is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) until 30.09.2028.

Within this project, and in a collaboration between the University of Göttingen (Germany) and the European Synchrotron (ESRF) in Grenoble (France), we will design and build a novel synchrotron setup to combine x-ray scattering with light microscopy. The newly built setup will then be used to investigate a variety of relevant biological systems.

We are looking for a candidate, who
•    Holds a Master’s degree in physics, biophysics, physical chemistry or a related field
•    Is fluent in English
•    Is interested in finding innovative, creative solutions
•    Has good programming/data analysis skills
•    Is experienced or at least strongly interested in one of the following fields: synchrotron experiments, light microscopy, cell biophysics.

To apply for this position, please send your documents (CV, list of publications, summary of relevant previous work (maximum one page), certificates and transcripts of previous degrees (Bachelor’s Master’s), two reference letters by senior researchers to sarah.koester@uni-goettingen.de (preferably as only one pdf file). Please indicate the job announcement ID (3163). Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.

If you have any questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Sarah Köster (sarah.koester@uni-goettingen.de, +49-551-39 29429). For more information about the research group, please visit the institute webpage.

For details click here

---

PhD position in the RNA Biology of trees

Biodiversity and the role of forests in climate change are now key social issues that require more knowledge. In order to both sustainably use and safeguard forest biodiversity, a coherent basic science research program is needed that addresses large and complex issues and develops new analytical tools. That’s why the WIFORCE Research School, part of the Wallenberg Initiatives in Forest Research (www.slu.se/en/wiforce), was created.

Our society is facing a big challenge when we need to switch from a fossil fuel dependent economy to a sustainable alternative. An especially difficult challenge is faced by the forest industry that in addition must adapt to a rapidly changing climate. Further, the frequency of extreme weather events will only increase in the future. The Swedish Forest is a large part of the prosperity in Sweden, but despite the importance of trees, we know little of how they use their DNA sequence to cope stressful situation and ongoing climate change.

To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level the applicant is required to have completed a second-cycle level degree, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 ECTS credits are at second-cycle level, or have an equivalent education from overseas, or equivalent qualifications. The candidate must have completed 90 ECTS credits with relevance to biology and at least 15 ECTS credits in a subject closely related to the research topic as well as an independent project work of at least 15 ECTS credits in an area relevant for the project.

Click the “Apply” button to submit your application. The deadline is 2026-02-10.

For details click here

---

Posted on December 05, 2025

Ph.D. in Epidemiology and Public Health

The interdisclipinary and highly international PhD program Medical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (PhD EPH) at the Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology (IBE) at LMU Munich, Germany, announces the call for two full scholarships for international doctoral candidates financed by the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The structured graduate program is one of the core areas within the Munich Medical Research School (MMRS) and embedded in the Pettenkofer School of Public Health.

The PhD EPH program is looking for highly motivated international applicants from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) with excellent grades and a strong scientific background and interest in biometry, statistics, epidemiology, public health or similar fields.

Areas of study:
• Clinical, Molecular and Genetic Epidemiology
• Clinical Trials and Translational Medicine
• Environmental Risk Factors on Health and Disease
• Genomic and Molecular Medicine
• Digital Health
• Clinical and Evidence-based Prevention
• Health Services Research
• Health Economics and
• Evidence-based Public Health

PhD-position at the department of Clinical Science

PhD fellowship in gene regulation and single cell methodology

The Department of Biology invites applicants for a PhD fellowship in single cell-resolved gene regulation to understand tissue development. The start date is (expected to be) the 1st of April 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The position is offered within the Tissue Gene Regulation lab headed by Robert Krautz.

The development of human tissues relies on the regulated activation of subsets of genes in tissue-specific cell types. Tens of thousands of short DNA-sequences called enhancers are spread across the human genome and regulate the extent to which genes are activated in different cell types. Despite their role, it has so far been impossible to measure activity levels of enhancers in single cells. Hence, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on a project aiming to establish a novel method to measure the activity of enhancers and promoters in single cells and apply this method to disentangle the differentiation of cell types in developing tissues. This will allow to identify key gene regulalory mechanisms that define how cell types and tissues emerge.

Qualifications needed for the PhD programme

To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have compleled a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master's degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project, e.g. Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biomedicine. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see general assessments for specific countries and the assessment database.

The deadline for applications is 9 December 2025, 23:59 GMT +2.

Contact Robert Krautz E-mail: pbr316@ku.dk

For details click here

---

Posted on November 29, 2025

PhD candidate in Spatial Systems Biology for Translational Oncology

We are seeking a motivated new PhD candidate who wants to join an exciting collaborative research program within the VIB-Center for Inflammation Research between the Guilliams, Saelens and Saeys teams.

In this research project you will develop and apply algorithms to link clinical phenotypes of metastasis to molecular phenotypes in mouse models. It is known that metastases exhibit several types of spatial growth patterns which correlate with therapy efficiencies and overall survival (Vermeulen et al. J Pathol. 2001, Nielsen et al. Mod Pathol. 2014, Baldin et al. J Pathol Clinical Research 2021, Frentzas et al. Nature Medicine 2016). What is exactly driving these growth patterns is unknown, although the involvement of the tumor microenvironment is clear. These patterns can be mimicked with in vivo models of metastasis, which provides unique opportunities to mechanistically dissect what drives the different cell states.

Profile

• Master's in bioinformatics, biomedicine, bioengineering, biotechnology or related fields
• Interest in linking digital pathology with mechanistic experimental biology
• Programming experience in Python
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English
• Collaborative personality with attention for detail

Want to apply?

Interested candidates are invited to apply online. Please use the VIB application tool to submit your application.

• Motivation letter of 1-1.5 pages
• Curriculum vitae
• University degree certificates

For more information, you are welcome to directly contact Prof. Wouter Saelens (wouter.saelens@ugent.be), Prof. Yvan Saeys (yvan.saeys@ugent.be) or Prof. Martin Guilliams (martin.guilliams@ugent.be)

For details click here

---

PhD Studentship - Functional Genomics of Host Determinants in Viral Entry and Transmission

This project aims to identify host factors in viral entry and cross-species transmission by examining evolutionary pressure and genetic variation. It focuses on characterising host cell proteins crucial for viral entry, exploring how adaptation and selective pressures shape these pathways and influence infection.
Our recent work combines CRISPR screen ranking with pan-mammalian positive selection analysis to pinpoint antiviral and proviral genes. Using this framework, we have already identified genes that affect influenza A virus entry and transmembrane proteins influencing SARS-CoV-2 entry. Building on these findings, this PhD will integrate comparative genomics with functional experimental validation to uncover new determinants of viral entry for a range of RNA viruses, including influenza A virus, coronaviruses and paramyxoviruses.

Aims:

1. Identify and characterise known viral receptors under positive selection across mammalian genomes, testing how adaptive change affects viral binding and cell tropism.
2. Use ontology and meta-analysis approaches to highlight cell surface and endosomal proteins not previously linked to virus entry but implicated in CRISPR screens, GWAS, or evolutionary analyses.
3. Experimentally validate candidate factors using CRISPR sub-screens and cell-based infection assays with viral pseudotype panels to define proteins affecting viral entry and transmission potential.

Research training:
The student will gain a comprehensive training that bridges molecular biology, virology, and bioinformatics. Laboratory work will include mammalian cell culture, CRISPR-based gene editing, and infection models using pseudotyped and replication competent viruses. The student will learn to perform and interpret high-content functional assays, protein–virus interaction studies, and flow cytometry analyses.

Apply Now:

• Visit the EASTBIO Webpage to download necessary documents.
• Submit your completed application, EDI survey, and academic transcripts to CIR.Postgraduate@ed.ac.uk by the deadline.
• Ensure references are sent to the same email using the provided form.

Deadline: Monday 15^th December, 2025. Competition funded PhD Project.

For details click here

---

PhD position in Medical Science with Specialization in Bioinformatics

Umea University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.

The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants meet the basic eligibility requirements for doctoral studies if they have:

• Completed a second-cycle (Master’s level) degree,
• Fulfilled course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits (ECTS), of which at least 60 credits at second-cycle level,
• Or otherwise acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in Sweden or abroad (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 7, Section 39).

Applicants must:

• Be proficient in at least one statically typed programming language.
• Have substantial experience of developing software (e.g. projects with > 10k lines of code).
• Have knowledge of hardware and operating system fundamentals, ideally with a focus on Linux
• Be proficient in written and spoken English.
• Be comfortable working in a diverse, inclusive, interdisciplinary, and highly collaborative environment.

Applications are submitted electronically via Varbi. Documents should be in Word or PDF format. The deadline for applications is 2025-12-11

The position is fully funded for four years and starts immediately or as agreed. For more information, contact Laura Carroll (laura.carroll@umu.se).

For details click here

---

Posted on November 25, 2025

20 fully funded PhD positions: CRG International PhD Programme 2026

20 fully funded PhD positions - CRG International PhD Programme 2026 

The Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona, Spain, invites outstanding and motivated candidates from across the world to apply for its International PhD Programme 2026. EmployerCRG-Centre for Genomic Regulation

Why join the Centre for Genomic Regulation? 

• Work alongside world-class scientists in one of Europe’s leading biomedical research institutes
• With just over 400 people on campus and nearly 70% of students coming from abroad, you’ll join a truly international environment where collaboration and creativity thrive
• You will access state-of-the-art core technologies in genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, imaging, and more
• We are housed in the heart of Barcelona, with our science having privileged views over the Mediterranean Sea. Students enjoy a lively community of international PhD student, with structured training programe, symposia, retreats, beach volleyball, yoga, choir, and monthly institute-wide events.

Programme Highlights: 

• Fully funded 4-year PhD positions in top-level research groups with employment contract, competitive salary, health coverage, and full social security benefits.
• Multidisciplinary projects across molecular biology, genomics, systems biology, bioinformatics, and related fields
• Training in scientific, technical, entrepreneurial and transferable skills
• Access to state-of-the-art core facilities and international collaborations
• Career development support and mentoring throughout the programme

Eligibility and Requirements: 

• Applicants must hold (or expect to obtain) a university degree qualifying them for PhD studies (Master’s) by the start of the programme or equivalent 300ECTS
• A strong academic record, motivation for research, and proficiency in English, our institute’s working language, is required.
• Applications are open to candidates of all nationalities.

For more details and to apply, click here

---

PhD candidate in gut microbiomics and enzymology

The position is part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN) in the frame of the European project MetaExplore, coordinated by the University of Cambridge (UK) (https://metaexplore.eu/).  MetaExplore  has been set up to provide young researchers with hands-on research experience and formal training in directed evolution, protein engineering, bioinformatics, chemical biology and mechanistic enzymology. In MetaExplore, 10 leading academic groups and 2 industrial partners will work together to train 15 Doctoral Candidates, alongside 9 companies and universities as associated partners and advisors.

The candidate will work within the CIMEs team of the TBI (https://www.toulouse-biotechnology-institute.fr/en/poles/equipe-cimes/) during the doctoral project, be enrolled at INSA Toulouse (a member of the University of Toulouse, France), and will be supervised by Gabrielle Potocki-Veronese (https://www.toulouse-biotechnology-institute.fr/en/gabrielle-potocki-ve…).  

The thesis project will be focused on the intestinal microbiota. This complex ecosystem is mainly composed of uncultured bacteria, harvesting on host and dietary glycosides thanks to a large panel of carbohydrate active enzymes (CAZymes). In this project, the human gut microbiome will be screened using droplet-microfluidics for functions of human glycoside metabolization. The molecular bases of the specificity of the identified transporters and CAZymes towards human glycosides will then be determined, by combining functional and structural analyses.

Skills/Qualifications:

Molecular biology, biochemistry and microbiology. Experience in bioinformatics will also be appreciated. 

Where to apply E-mail veronese@insa-toulouse.fr

---

PhD Candidate in Synthetic Biology and Metagenomics

NTNU is a broad-based university with a technical-scientific profile and a focus in professional education. The university is located in three cities with headquarters in Trondheim. At NTNU, 9,000 employees and 43,000 students work to create knowledge for a better world.

You will find more information about working at NTNU and the application process here.

Are you motivated to take a step towards a doctorate and open up exciting career opportunities? As a PhD Candidate with us, you will work to achieve your doctorate, and at the same time gain valuable experience that qualifies you for a further career in higher education and research, in and outside academia.

Duties of the position

Posted on November 14, 2025

PhD position in Computational Cancer Biology

The doctoral student will join the research group of Associate Professor Susanne Schlisio at the Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, located in Bioclinicum, Solna. The Schlisio laboratory investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying tumor initiation, progression, and therapy resistance in sympatho-adrenal cancers, such as neuroblastoma and paraganglioma.

The group applies single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, lineage tracing, and genetically engineered mouse modelsto dissect tumor plasticity, lineage hierarchies, and the developmental origins of cancer. A major goal is to translate fundamental discoveries into new concepts for precision oncology and patient stratification.

The doctoral student will work on the project “Targeting malignancy in neuroblastoma and paraganglioma driven by cell plasticity using spatial transcriptomics and machine learning.”

High-risk neuroblastoma (NB) and malignant paraganglioma (PPGL) are neural crest–derived tumors with pronounced heterogeneity and therapy resistance. The project aims to elucidate how tumor cell plasticity and microenvironmental signals drive malignancy, progression, and treatment failure. By combining spatial transcriptomics (Visium HD, Xenium), single-cell RNA sequencing, and computational modeling, the student will map tumor cell states, lineage hierarchies, and differentiation trajectories. Insights from these analyses will guide functional validation using in vitro assays and genetically engineered mouse models to identify signaling pathways that promote differentiation and reduce aggressiveness.

Eligibility requirements for doctoral education:

A) General eligibility requirement

You meet the general eligibility requirement for doctoral/third-cycle/PhD education if you:

1. have been awarded a second-cycle/advanced/master qualification (i.e. master degree), or
2. have satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the advanced/second-cycle/master level, or
3. have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.*

B) Specific eligibility requirement

You meet the specific eligibility requirement for doctoral/third-cycle/PhD education if you:

- Show proficiency in English equivalent to the course English B/English 6 at Swedish upper secondary school.

Qualifications:

Qualifications: 

• The successful candidate should hold a Master’s degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Strong programming skills in R and/or Python are essential, as well as prior experience in data analysis, statistics, or machine learning.
• The project involves large-scale single-cell and spatial transcriptomics data, so familiarity with RNA-seq analysis, data visualization, and computational workflowsis required.
• The candidate should have a strong motivation to apply computational approaches to biological and medical questions and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

All applicants will be informed when the recruitment is completed. Apply at the latest 10 December.

For details click here

---

PhD Student Computational Biology

Fixed-term of 3 years | Part-time with 65% (25 hours/week) | Salary according to TV-L E 13 | Lab for Functional Genomics in Psychiatry at the Department of Mental Health, University Muenster We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility. To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific support – ideally with you on board!

The mission of the Ziller lab is to develop and apply novel strategies to dissect the genetic and epigenetic basis of complex diseases, with particular focus on psychiatric disorders. Our research is focused on the question how many genetic and environmental risk factors act in concert to create a permissive molecular environment that fosters the emergence of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and lead to treatment resistance.

REQUIREMENTS:

We are looking for motivated individuals skilled in computer science/computational biology/bioinformatics with the desire to make a difference for people suffering from mental health problems.

A Masters Degree in (Bio)Informatics/Data Science or related disciplines is desirable. The positions focus on the development and application of new methods to predict multi-omic traits and phenotypes from large genetic datasets.

More specifically, the computational team will build on our previous work (PMID: 38951512) to establish and train deep neuronal network models on large existing dataset with multi-omic data.

Subsequently, these models will be applied to clinical cohorts of individuals suffering from mental illness to perform patient stratification, discovery of new biological mechanisms and stratified drug target identification, empwering personalized medicine in psychiatry.

Experience in quantitative genetics and/or deep neural networks, R/Python/PyTorch/Tensorflow etc. is desirable.

Apply now via our career portal until 19.11.2025, including

• Cover letter expressing research interests
• Brief summary of your previous projects, including applied techniques
• Complete CV

For details click here

---

PhD Position in Plant Metabolomics and Evolution

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in bioinformatics to join our research team investigating the global drivers of phytochemical diversity. This project aims to uncover how the remarkable diversity of plant metabolites relates to biotic and abiotic stress across the globe. As a model system, we focus on the Salicaceae family, which provides an exceptional opportunity to study phytochemical evolution thanks to its broad geographic distribution, ecological diversity, and well-characterized phylogeny.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The successful candidate will:

• Analyse Salicaceae metabolomes using advanced metabolomics and bioinformatics;
• Develop bioinformatic pipelines integrating existing tools to acquire deeper insights into structural and functional chemical variation;
• Collaborate with team members to interpret chemical diversity within an evolutionary and ecological framework, including the inference of Salicaceae phylogeny;
• Contribute to joint analyses linking field-based ecological data with chemical and genomic datasets.

Through these approaches, the PhD candidate will contribute to understanding how plant chemistry evolves and adapts in response to environmental and ecological pressures, offering new insights into the multidimensional nature of phytochemical diversity.

REQUIREMENTS:

• A MSc degree (a non-negotiable requirement for PhD program eligibility);
• A strong interest in plant ecology, evolution, and bioinformatics;
• Experience with metabolomics or phylogenomics (highly desirable);
• Experience in bioinformatic data manipulation and workflow development (Bash essential, familiarity with Python or R highly desirable);
• Experience in biostatistics or data integration (advantageous);
• Fluent written and spoken English;
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

HOW TO APPLY:

To apply, please send the following documents via email:

• A CV,
• A cover letter describing your motivation, relevant experience, and research interests,
• Contact details for three references

Application Details:

• Deadline: December 10, 2025
• Interviews: Mid-December 2025
• Start date: April 1, 2026

Informal inquiries can be sent to volf@entu.cas.cz.

---

PhD Candidate in Genetic Epidemiology

NTNU is a broad-based university with a technical-scientific profile and a focus in professional education. The university is located in three cities with headquarters in Trondheim. At NTNU, 9,000 employees and 43,000 students work to create knowledge for a better world.

We currently have a vacancy at HUNT MCE for a PhD Candidate in Genetic Epidemiology. This is a 3-year temporary position within the field of genetic epidemiology. We seek a talented and enthusiastic person with experience in epidemiology, genetics or statistics. For more information about the center, see https://www.ntnu.edu/hunt/mce

Our research is using information from large population-based cohorts available to the HUNT MCE Group for Genetic Epidemiology. This includes genotype data on more than 70,000 individuals from the HUNT Study linked with comprehensive health information from both local and national registries such as medical records at hospitals and primary care, the birth registry, the cause of death registry and the prescription registry.

Required selection criteria:

Application deadline: 01.12.2025

For details click here

---

Posted on November 2025

20 fully funded PhD positions- CRG International PhD Programme 2026

The Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona, Spain, invites outstanding and motivated candidates from across the world to apply for its International PhD Programme 2026.

Why join the Centre for Genomic Regulation? 

• Work alongside world-class scientists in one of Europe’s leading biomedical research institutes
• With just over 400 people on campus and nearly 70% of students coming from abroad, you’ll join a truly international environment where collaboration and creativity thrive
• You will access state-of-the-art core technologies in genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, imaging, and more
• We are housed in the heart of Barcelona, with our science having privileged views over the Mediterranean Sea. Students enjoy a lively community of international PhD student, with structured training programe, symposia, retreats, beach volleyball, yoga, choir, and monthly institute-wide events.

We are looking for talented candidates who wish to pursue cutting-edge doctoral research in the life sciences. The CRG provides a highly stimulating international environment where creativity, scientific excellence, and interdisciplinary approaches are strongly encouraged.

Programme Highlights: 

• Fully funded 4-year PhD positions in top-level research groups with employment contract, competitive salary, health coverage, and full social security benefits.
• Multidisciplinary projects across molecular biology, genomics, systems biology, bioinformatics, and related fields
• Training in scientific, technical, entrepreneurial and transferable skills
• Access to state-of-the-art core facilities and international collaborations
• Career development support and mentoring throughout the programme

Eligibility and Requirements: 

• Applicants must hold (or expect to obtain) a university degree qualifying them for PhD studies (Master’s) by the start of the programme or equivalent 300ECTS
• A strong academic record, motivation for research, and proficiency in English, our institute’s working language, is required.
• Applications are open to candidates of all nationalities.

30 November 2025 – Application deadline

For details click here

---

9 PhD student positions in Berlin for 4 years in One Health Helminthology

Do you like to become a One Health expert in Helminthology? Do you like to work interdisciplinary and do your doctoral thesis in a structured doctoral program in Berlin? Here is your chance!
We are looking for highly motivated international candidates who are interested in infectious disease research with focus on helminths and share our vision to improve world’s health. Our mission is to train creative, responsible and self-confident young researchers.
As member of the German Research Foundation (DFG)-funded Research Training Group (RTG) 3096 “One Health Approach to Soil-Transmitted Helminths,” successful applicants will work on scientific projects in an interdisciplinary manner within a structured program. In total, we offer 9 doctoral researcher student positions in different scientific projects and labs. The projects address the three “One Health” aspects: 1) human roundworm infections (close cooperation and fieldwork in Kenya / Africa), 2) roundworm infections in farm animals (chicken and pigs in Germany), and 3) environmental factors (sociological and economic field studies in Kenya and Germany). The RTG will thus incorporate human, animal, and environmental aspects into the research and training of candidates to become “One Health” infectious disease specialists. After four years of training in the structured doctoral program and the acquisition of at least 30 CP, candidates have the opportunity to obtain a certificate for the successful completion of a PhD graduate school.
We offer 9 scientific projects, which require different background education of the candidates, from Parasitology, Biophysics, Immunology to Ecology. Social and Data Sciences and Health Economics. Please check our Webpage (link below) for further information about the PhD projects and required backgrounds. Our 9 projects are offered by the following internationally renowned research institutes:
• Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology: 2 projects
• Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Parasitology, Trop. Vet. Med.: 1 project
• Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Physiology: 1 project
• Freie Universität Berlin, School of Veterinary Medicine, Farm Animal Clinic – Division for Poultry: 1 project
• Eberswalde University of Sustainable Development, Animal Husbandry in Organic Farming: 1 project
• Robert Koch Institute Berlin: 2 projects
• Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research Berlin: 1 project

Candidates must hold a master degree or equivalent in a relevant subject and speak English. If you want to join us, please apply until October 30th, 2025 via our online application platform.

Apply here

---

Posted on October 01, 2025

PhD position in neutrophil biology in diabetes: Bioinformatics

The Leuven Diabetes Lab, headed by Prof. Chantal Mathieu, is part of the Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology Division within the CHROMETA Department at KU Leuven, combining clinical insight with cutting-edge experimental research to study type 1 diabetes.
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate the role of neutrophils in the development of autoimmune type 1 diabetes. Our lab has a strong track record in uncovering the immunopathogenesis of type 1 diabetes using both mouse models and human studies.

This project investigates the role of neutrophils in type 1 diabetes using whole blood or sorted cells, along with single-cell transcriptomics and spatial transcriptomics/proteomics datasets. You will collaborate with core facilities such as the VIB Single Cell Core and KU Leuven LISCO to leverage state-of-the-art technologies. Our findings indicate that circulating human neutrophils are transcriptionally heterogeneous.

A key question is whether neutrophils in the circulation reflect underlying processes in the pancreas. To address this, we have access to INNODIA datasets from people at risk of or newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, as well as nPOD pancreatic tissue samples from people with type 1 diabetes. This allows us to study the involvement of neutrophils in both blood and pancreatic tissue and to assess their potential as effector, predictive, and therapeutic targets. In collaboration with core facilities, we have optimized and generated single-cell and single-nucleus datasets on immune cells and tissue sections, providing a unique opportunity to explore neutrophil biology in the context of type 1 diabetes.

Essential

• Master's in bioinformatics, data science, biomedicine, bioengineering, biotechnology or related fields
• Programming experience in Python and/or R
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English
• Proactive, rigorous, solution-oriented, and a critical thinker.
• A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm to work in an international and interdisciplinary environment

Bonus but not required

• Experience in single-cell and spatial omics data analysis
• Experience with highly multiplexed flow cytometry
• Background in immunology

For more information, please contact Dr. Conny Gysemans, tel.: +32 16 37 74 54, mail: conny.gysemans@kuleuven.be or Prof. Dr. Chantal Mathieu, mail : chantal.mathieu@uzleuven.be.

PhD student in Cancer Immunology

The Translational Cancer Immunogenomics (TCI) Research Group, led by Dr. Ángel Álvarez-Prado at the Department of Cancer Research of LIH, is currently offering a Ph.D. student position. Recently established, the research group focuses on understanding how genetic alterations in cancer cells shape the immune microenvironment of brain metastatic tumors, with the long-term goal of developing novel personalized immunotherapies for cancer patients with brain metastasis.

The TCI group works at the interface between immunology and cancer biology and combine the use of preclinical models of cancer and human samples with state-of-the-art technologies to profile the immune microenvironment of brain metastatic tumors upon different therapeutic interventions. We are looking for a highly motivated Ph.D. student to join our lab and work on brain metastatic cancer. The candidate will join a young, creative and stimulating environment, with direct supervision and mentoring by the Principal Investigator, and opportunities for professional growth and direct involvement in research projects including national and international collaboration partners.

Key Skills, Experience and Qualifications
•    B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Biomedical sciences, Immunology or Oncology.
•    Hands-on experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell culture, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence techniques.
•    Experience handling experimental mouse models and certified training on animal experimentation and welfare corresponding to the requirements defined by the EU Directive 2010/63/EU and the Réglement Grand-Ducal of the 11th January 2013 (FELASA or equivalent) will be a plus.
•    Experience on bioinformatic analyses (DNA-Seq, (sc)RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq) and/or R programming skills will be a plus.
•    Skills: Curiosity, rigor, perseverance, creativity, excellent time management and sense of priority, willingness to learn, team player.
•    Fluent command of English (written and spoken) is a must.

The starting date can be negotiated but incorporation date must be between March and June 2026.

For any further information, please contact Dr. Ángel Álvarez-Prado at angel.alvarez@lih.lu.

Applications including a cover letter and a curriculum vitae should be sent before the 15th November 2025 via our website www.LIH.lu/jobs with the ref: MC/PHD0925/AAP/TCI.

For details click here

---

10 PhD Fellowships in Infection Biology of Human Pathogens

Hannover Medical School (MHH) and its cooperation partners TWINCORE (Hannover) and Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (Braunschweig) offer 10 PhD fellowships as part of the new Research Training Group (RTG) “Activation of anti-Microbial Effectors (ACME)” (coordinator: Dirk Schlüter, Hannover) funded by the German Research Foundation. The central aim of the program is to give highly qualified and motivated young researchers the opportunity to perform their cutting-edge 4-year PhD work in the rapidly moving field of infection biology in a highly stimulating, competitive, and international environment. The 10 innovative projects of the RTG ACME focus on the hypothesis that cell-intrinsic defense mechanisms of infected human cells can be activated or modulated to control the intracellular pathogens effectively.

Programme highlights
•    Four years structured PhD studies in an innovative research project supervised by internationally renowned principal investigators
•    Integration into the RTG ACME's comprehensive and interdisciplinary training program with structured joint training of doctoral students in natural sciences and medicine and early-career medical and clinician scientists
•    Training courses in cutting-edge technologies (OMICS technologies, innovative human infectious disease models (e.g. organoids, iPSC), bioinformatics, AI) and soft skills required for a successful career
•    Internal and international lab rotations
•    Retreats and networking events including organization of international symposia
•    Targeted, individual career support.
•    The RTG ACME, MHH (8,428 employers from 110 countries) and its partners provide a highly stimulating international environment
•    Intensive collaboration with renowned infection researchers of the Center for Immunology of Viral Infection (CiViA) at Aarhus University (Denmark, https://biomed.au.dk/civia)
•    MHH, TWINCORE and HZI have a strong research focus on “Infection and Immunity” and host the German Excellence Cluster “Resolving Infection Susceptibility” (https://www.resist-cluster.de/en/)
•    Salary according to German TVL E13, 65% including all social benefits for up to four years

Application
The online application process opens July 28, 2025 and will be closed September 28, 2025. RTG ACME will start April 1, 2026, and candidates who hold the equivalent of a master’s or diploma degree in Biology, Biochemistry or Life Sciences, or who graduated in medicine are welcome to apply online: https://hbrs.cloud.opencampus.net/. Please note that any other form of application will be disregarded.

---

Posted on August 2025

PhD Position - Machine Learning & Plant Structural-Functional Modelling

The Bioinformatics Division of the Institute of Biological and Geosciences (IBG-4) processes and develops methods and algorithms to achieve a fundamental understanding of high-dimensional data and processes in the bioeconomy in particular. Bioinformatics at Forschungszentrum Jülich plays a leading role at the international level, for example in the field of plant and microbial data management, in the evaluation of new methods of genome analysis, in the integration, interpretation, and visualization of high-dimensional omics data from the field of bioeconomics, and in the modeling, simulation, and engineering of biomolecular systems, including enzymes. Are you interested in plant sciences? Do you have a passion for applying cutting-edge methods to explore the bioeconomic relevance of plants?

Your Job:

• Develop AI pipelines that translate -omic signatures into dynamic model parameters
• Implement reinforcement-learning agents that optimise model performance
• Collaborate closely with modellers, molecular biologists and data scientists across IBG-3 and IBG-4
• Communicate your science by presenting at conferences, publishing software and peer-reviewed publications

Your Profile:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Data Science, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Physics or a related field
• Solid programming skills and knowledge in deep learning, statistical modelling or reinforcement learning
• Interest in (or willingness to learn) plant physiology, genomics and process-based modelling; any prior exposure to crop or ecological models is a plus
• Proven ability to work independently, communicate clearly in English and thrive in an interdisciplinary team

We look forward to receiving your application by 14.9.2025

Apply here

---

PhD Candidate in Cardiac Biology

A PhD position is available at the Department of Medical Biology (IMB), The Faculty of Health Sciences with the project  “Rejuvenating Cardiomyocytes to heal hearts with better scars”. The position is in The Hortells lab, associated with the Cardiovascular Research Group.

The PhD candidate will participate in the research project titled “Rejuvenating Cardiomyocytes to heal hearts with better scars”. The project will be supervised by Associate Professor Luis Hortells. The cardiovascular research group is specialized in the study of cardiovascular pathophysiology and the Hortells lab is focused on cell communication in the heart and the peripheral nervous system in the context of disease and aging. Specifically, this project focus on improving the outcome after a myocardial infarction.

Required qualifications: 

• Master’s degree in biomedical sciences will be given priority, but other life sciences masters will be also taken into consideration (medicine, biology, biotechnology, pharmacology,  neurosciences, veterinary medicine).
• Documented experience in molecular/cellular biology is required.
• Experience with cardiac cell work (including cardiac cell isolation), qPCR, histology, antibody-based techniques, confocal microscopy, small molecules/nanoparticles-based therapies, and live imaging are a must.
• Applicants must document fluency of in English and be able to work in an international environment. Nordic applicants can document their English capabilities by attaching their high school diploma.

Deadline 15th September 2025

For details click here

---

PhD Position in Food Allergy, Gut-Brain Axis & Inflammation in Brain Disorders

Growing evidence suggests that allergic immune responses in the gut can influence the brain, but how these signals are transmitted and whether they contribute to brain disorders remains unclear. This project explores how food allergy during early life alters the gut microbiota, reprograms immune cells, and promotes their trafficking to the brain, ultimately triggering neuroinflammation. The PhD student will help uncover the molecular and cellular pathways linking the allergic gut to the inflamed brain, and how these pathways shape disease risk later in life.

The successful candidate will work closely with experts in food allergy, neuroimmunology, gut physiology, and computational biology to characterize immune cell responses, construct spatial maps of inflammation along the gut-brain axis, and identify immune-mediated drivers of brain dysfunction.

The Computational Neurobiology group (Dr. Valeriya Malysheva), Gut-Immune-Brain Axis Lab (Dr. Seppe De Schepper) at the VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, and the incoming lab of Dr. Javier Aguilera Lizarraga at the Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante (IN, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Spain), are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join a collaborative and interdisciplinary project investigating how food allergy affects gut-brain communication and contributes to brain inflammation.

We are looking for a talented and enthusiastic candidate with:

• A Master’s degree in immunology, neuroscience, molecular biology, or related disciplines
• FELASA certification
• Ideally, prior experience in bioinformatics and computational biology
• Strong interest in immune-brain interactions and food allergy-related immunology
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English
• A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm to work in an international, interdisciplinary environment

For more information: please contact valeriya.malysheva@vib.be or Sebastiaan.DeSchepper@vib.be

Click here

---

Posted on August 13, 2025

PhD position in Multidimensional Omics Data Analysis

The Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - e. V. develops efficient analytical methods for health research. Thus, it contributes to the improvement of the prevention, early diagnosis, and therapy of diseases like cardiovascular diseases or cancer. Overall, the institute strives to advance precision medicine by combining knowledge from different fields such as biology, chemistry, computer science, medicine, pharmacology, and physics. ISAS is a member of the Leibniz Association and is publicly funded by the Federal Republic of Germany and its federal states.

You will be responsible for

• Setup a knowledge graph in neo4J for microbiome research
• Integration of microbiome research data from the project with data from literature (e.g., molecular pathways) using the knowledge graph
• Re-analysis of already published data
• Identification of microbial effectors from the knowledge graph

Your profile

• Masters, Diploma or equivalent degree in Bioinformatics or similar, obtained by the start date
• Experience in programming and databases
• Basic biological understanding
• Proficiency in scientific English (written and spoken)
• Willingness to spend several months at other institutions abroad. The project includes the following secondments: three months at University of Pisa, Italy (Mariagrazia di Luca), two months at Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany (Stephan Fuchs)
• The following conditions of international mobility of researchers must be fulfilled: Researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment

For details click here

---

12 PhD Positions in Biology of Ageing and for Metabolism Research

The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) in Germany is a joint venture of the University of Cologne Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), the University Hospital and the Max Planck Institutes for Biology of Ageing and for Metabolism Research. We offer up to 12 FULLY FUNDED PHD POSITIONS to highly motivated and talented researchers. The structured PhD training programme within a cutting-edge research environment will start on an individual basis between July 1 and October 1, 2026.

We offer

• An outstanding international research environment at one of Europe's most prestigious ageing research clusters, comprising 49 interdisciplinary research groups
• Initial work contracts of at least three years with payment based on the German TV-L E13 scale, 65% or on an equivalently remunerated PhD support contract of the Max Planck Society
• Dedicated supervision with academic guidance from thesis advisory committees
• Comprehensive PhD programme in the vibrant city of Cologne, conducted in English
• Individual career mentoring & coaching, wide range of methodology & soft skills courses
• Annual conference travel grants
• Intensive support and guidance for international students in all administrative matters

We are looking for

• Applicants with an MSc or equivalent degree in Biology, Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Genetics, Medical Biology, Translational Medicine, or related fields
• Students with excellent academic performance in their BSc and MSc studies and a clear interest in the above-mentioned research areas, with strong motivation for ageing research
• Candidates with very good English skills (C1 level, written and spoken)

Your application

APPLICATION PERIOD: AUGUST 12 - NOVEMBER 3, 2025
Online application:https://application.ageing-grad-school.de
Contact:cga-coordination@uni-koeln.de

---

15-20 fully funded PhD in AI/ML and Systems Medicine

The AITHYRA-CeMM International PhD Program in AI/ML, Molecular Technologies and Systems Medicine

The AITHYRA-CeMM PhD Program will focus on the thematic areas of infection, immunity, cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, network medicine, patient-derived organoids, bioengineering and aging research. Particular emphasis will be placed on the integration of multimodal biological data, development of deep learning and large language models for biological discovery or graph-based methods for molecular and cellular networks. The technological foundation further consists of systems biology, virology, high-throughput genetics, genomics and proteomics, molecular and cell biology, high content automatic imaging, chemical biology, and organic chemical synthesis.

Our goal is to enable and empower AI/ML and life science students with the ability to successfully design, execute, manage and explain a research project in modern AI-driven molecular medicine, through a strongly participatory and interactive program. The program is conceptualized in three ‘modes’: collect, connect and contribute. These will guide you through scientific excellence in data generation and validation to responsible and professional scientific citizenship.

Deadline for applications: 10 September 2025

Apply here

---

PhD scholarship in microbiome bioinformatics

Do you want to grow as a scientist and become a microbiome researcher at the best technical university in Europe? Do you want to hone your scientific skills and use programming to help address the antimicrobial resistance epidemic that kills over a million people annually? Then this Novo Nordisk Foundation-funded PhD scholarship, located in one of the World’s most livable cities, might be for you!

Working with colleagues in the MULTIBIOMINE project, you will develop computational methods that use novel strategies to uncover hidden features in large metagenomic datasets. These features include both the weapons and shields that bacteria use when fighting each other: antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance. In the Research Group for Genomic Epidemiology, your primary tasks will be to:

• Develop and validate novel computational tools for analyzing metagenomic data
• Publish peer-reviewed research articles on bioinformatic tools and their application
• Present and discuss research findings to both peers and the public
• Assist in teaching courses and co-supervise MSc/BSc students with relevant projects
• Visit and collaborate with research partners in Denmark and abroad

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

• Master’s degree in bioinformatics or a closely related field
• Documented metagenomics experience
• Experience with writing and running data analysis scripts in a command-line interface
• Solid programming experience in Python
• Experience with scripting and data analyses in R
• Strong English communication skills; both written and orally
• Experience with the Snakemake workflow management system
• An interest in working with antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

Apply Before 22/08/2025, 03:29

Apply here

---

Posted on July 30, 2025

PhD position in AI for biomedical data analysis

You will join the Institute of Medical Systems Biology and the bAIome Center for Biomedical AI (baiome.org) to complement our lively and enthusiastic team of machine learning and data analysis experts. The main tasks include the analysis of complex biomedical data using modern AI methods, as well as the development of novel machine and deep learning algorithms to understand, predict, and treat diseases. You will work with multimodal biomedical datasets including omics, imaging, and patient data and apply cutting-edge AI models such as graph neural networks, transformer architectures, or diffusion models. In close collaboration with clinical partners, you will translate your research into practical, translationally relevant applications, contributing to advances in personalized medicine.

Your Profile

• Master’s degree in computer science, bioinformatics or related fields
• Solid understanding of machine and deep learning and relevant frameworks (e.g. Pytorch or Tensorflow, Keras, scikit-learn, OpenCV)
• Proficiency in Python, Linux and HPC environments
• Good communication skills to interact with collaborators ranging from machine learning researchers to pathologists or medical students
• Knowledge of biology and medicine is a plus
• Highly motivated with an interest to work in an interdisciplinary team spanning machine learning, bioinformatics, and medicine
• Strong English language skills to communicate and collaborate in our diverse work environment

For details click here

---

PhD Studentship: Health Data Science

The Child and adolescent Health Impacts of Learning Indoor environments under net zero (CHILI) Hub is a program funded by the MRC and NIHR, the goal of which is to understand the health effects we can expect to see as the UK transitions to net-zero. It is a collaboration between University College London, Imperial College London, The London School of Hygiene & Topical Medicine, Swansea University, the University of Leeds, the University of York and the UK Health Security Agency.

As the climate changes, the impact of air pollution on child and adolescent health is one of the most complex and challenging problems in health data science. Air pollution is composed of several different environmental pollutants, for example particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) are commonly measured. Each pollutant is produced and destroyed by different processes, and the levels of the various pollutants are correlated with each other, for example, and increase in NO2 causes an increase in O3. Statistical methodological developments are required to understand the relationship between air pollutants and health outcomes to account for both the size and nature of the data.

This PhD project will develop statistical modelling frameworks that are able to handle large-scale, complex, and correlated time series data, and apply these frameworks to population-scale datasets to generate new knowledge and insights about the impact of different air pollutants on child and adolescent health. This may include techniques like generalisations of Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) models, Dynamic Linear Models (DLM) and joint longitudinal and survival models. To appropriately capture uncertainty for health policy decision-making, these methods will be developed using a Bayesian framework.

Reference: RS863

Closes: 11th August 2025

For details click here

---

PhD student in cancer proteomics

PhD student in cancer proteomics (m/f/d) available in the Division of Proteomics of Stem Cells and cancer, headed by Prof. Jeroen Krijgsveld. Our division develops innovative proteomic approaches to understand proteome regulation in cancer, both in mechanistic and clinical studies. To expand our activities, we are looking for a motivated PhD student to investigate mechanisms of disease and drug resistance in myeloid leukemia.

We are looking for motivated researcher with experience in mass spectrometry-based proteomics to join a project aimed at understanding cellular plasticity, therapy response, and drug resistance in myeloid leukemia. The successful candidate will perform proteomic experiments to investigate cellular plasticity using primary cells, cell lines, and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. To this end, the candidate will have direct access to cutting-edge mass spectrometry and advanced bioinformatics infrastructure. The project is part of the collaborative research center “Cellular Plasticity in Malignant Myeloid Diseases – From Mechanisms to Therapy” and is a close collaboration with the Department of Hematology and other partners in the consortium.

Your profile:

Posted on July , 2025

PhD Positions at the International Max Planck Research School for Molecules of Life

The International Max Planck Research School for Molecules of Life (IMPRS-ML) currently has an open call for fully funded PhD student positions in the areas of biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, cell biology, systems biology, and computational biology. We are looking for outstanding graduates from all over the world to join our network of passionate young scientists in Munich.

Eligibility

(a) Entry with an MSc degree

Entry level for doctoral studies at IMPRS-ML usually is a Master of Science degree or an equivalent degree. Most applicants either have a combination of BSc and MSc (with a total equivalent of 300 ECTS credits) or a 5-year integrated MSc. Candidates are invited to apply with any academic background relevant to the multidisciplinary research of our IMPRS-ML Faculty, including but not limited to Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemistry, Computer Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics and Physics.

(b) Entry with a 4-years BSc hons (or equivalent degree)

EU degrees: Applicants with a 4-year first class BSc hons degree awarded by a university inside the European Bologna System (equivalent to 240 ECTS credits) are eligible to apply.

UK/Australia/Canada degrees: Applicants with a 4-year first class BSc hons or MSci degree (equivalent to 240 ECTS credits) from the UK, Australia or Canada are eligible to apply.

Our next application round will start on 25 August 2025. We do not accept applications outside of our application rounds.

PhD position in Molecular and Computational Neurogenomics

We are a highly motivated international team of researchers at the Molecular Neurogenomics group(Jordanova Lab) and the Computational Neurobiology group (Malysheva Lab) at the VIB CMN. We are excited to announce a call for a joint PhD student in our labs to work on a challenging project at the interface of neurodegeneration, genomics, computational and systems biology. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) represents the most common genetic disorder of the peripheral nervous system. Patients experience progressive distal muscle weakness and wasting, sensory loss, and skeletal deformities ultimately leaving them severely disabled. This lifelong disorder is currently incurable. The most prominent protein family implicated in the etiology of CMT are aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (ARS). Ubiquitous and essential enzymes, ARS catalyse a critical step in protein biosynthesis by charging tRNA with their cognate amino acid. Jordanova Lab reported that dominant mutations in the tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase (YARS) cause a clinical variant of CMT, and so far, six additional cytoplasmic ARS have been implicated in the same pathology.

Profile

The candidate should:

• have an MSc in Systems Biology, Molecular Biology, Natural Sciences or related disciplines
• be very motivated and enthusiastic to learn and expand both computational and experimental skill set
• have an analytical mindset
• be able to summarize data extracted from the literature and shape research objectives
• be able to communicate with experimental and computational scientists efficiently
• have excellent communication and writing skills in English

Required skills

• confident in basic molecular biology techniques, such as cell cultures, basic genomics data generation
• knowledge of (theory behind) gene regulatory mechanisms and multimodal data integration
• basic/intermediate programming skills in R and/or python
• Ability to adapt to the research environments while being full members of two labs

Desirable skills

• statistical analysis
• basic processing of NGS data
• experience with iPSC and/or cell culturing
• knowledge of and some experience with genetic perturbation assays, such as CRISPR

For details click here

---

Posted on June 17, 2025

VIB.AI International PhD Call 2025

 

Are you curious, committed, and ready to shape the future of AI in biology? VIB.AI is looking for PhD candidates to start in autumn/winter 2025/26!

We are especially interested in recruiting PhD students who are eager to develop and apply artificial intelligence techniques and mechanistic mathematical models to explore fundamental questions in biology. The PhD program is organized in partnership between VIB.AI, the other VIB Centers (CBD, CMN and CSB) and partner universities (KU Leuven, University of Antwerp and Vrije Universiteit Brussel).

VIB & VIB.AI offers a unique PhD experience with access to state-of-the-art facilities, expertise, and training. PhD students will have the opportunity to work together with internationally recognized scientists and develop their research projects in an innovative research environment.

At the start of the program, you'll take part in an extended onboarding period that includes specialized courses and hands-on training in AI and machine learning. You'll also have the chance to explore different labs and core facilities, meet fellow researchers, and take part in social and networking activities—all designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and connections to confidently launch your PhD journey.

Requirements

To be considered for a PhD position, you must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a relevant master’s degree or an equivalent higher education qualification in fields such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology/Neuroscience/Chemistry, Bioengineering, Biotechnology or other related fields
• Demonstrate academic excellence, typically reflected by graduation with distinction (cum laude) or through notable professional accomplishments.
• Relevant experience in interdisciplinary projects involving artificial intelligence and the life sciences is a plus.

Candidates who do not yet possess a master’s degree may be required to enroll in a predoctoral program, subject to the decision of the doctoral school. Further details will be provided if you are shortlisted.

This may include previous research in computational modeling, machine learning applications in genomics, protein structure, participation in bioinformatics projects, or hands-on experience with AI tools applied to biological data sets such as omics data, protein structure prediction, or biomedical imaging.

Deadline: 22nd June 2025

For apply click here

---

Doctoral Researcher: Microbiome Proteins in Neurodegenerative Disease

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB) is an interdisciplinary research centre of the University of Luxembourg.
We conduct fundamental and translational research in the field of Systems Biology and Biomedicine - in the lab, in the clinic and in silico. We focus on neurodegenerative processes and are especially interested in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and their contributing factors. The LCSB recruits talented scientists from various disciplines: computer scientists, mathematicians, biologists, chemists, engineers, physicists and clinicians from more than 50 countries currently work at the LCSB. We excel because we are truly interdisciplinary, and together we contribute to science and society.

Your role

Pathogenesis in the age of the microbiome (MICRO-PATH; https://micro-path.uni.lu) is a highly competitive, interdisciplinary, research-intensive PhD training programme, supported by the PRIDE funding scheme of the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR) and the programme's partner institutions: University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg Institute of Health, and Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology. MICRO-PATH addresses research questions based on causal and mechanistic studies of microbiome-mediated pathogenesis.

Your profile

Early-stage researcher: a researcher without a PhD, who is in the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of research career, measured from the date when the degree was obtained, which would formally entitle the person to embark on a doctorate. Graduation in the field of bioinformatics, biology, or related fields - M.Sc. is required.

Key qualifications and qualities include:

• Experience in bioinformatics/computational biology; experience in protein structure prediction is considered an important asset
• Well-structured and autonomous working style, good organizational and communication skills
• Fluency in written and spoken English. German and/or French is a plus
• Team player

For details click here

---

Posted on June 10, 2025

PhD Position in Intestinal Microbiome Research

The Chair of Intestinal Microbiome is looking for a research associate for a PhD position at the earliest possible date. PhD Position in Intestinal Microbiome Research (m/f/d) The Chair of Intestinal Microbiome, School of Life Sciences of the TU Munich offers a PhD position to per-form research on the Intestinal Microbiome.

We are an international interdisciplinary team bridging molecu-lar microbiology, ecology and infection research with the focus to understand mechanisms of host-microbe and microbe-microbe interaction in the gut. Our lab has a broad expertise in employing synthetic microbial communities, gnotobiotic mouse infection models as well as in molecular microbiology of gut microbiota and enteric pathogens.

The TUM School of Life Sciences provides an interactive and supportive environment for advancing intestinal microbiome research and extensive support for PhD candidates. Researchers benefit from opportunities to engage in a wide range of interdisciplinary collaborations such as the Collaborative Research Center 1371 “Microbial Signatures – Functional Relevance in the Digestive Tract” (https://www.sfb1371.tum.de/) and access to different core facilities (sequencing, proteomics and metabolomics). This dynamic setting fosters innovation and teamwork, enabling cutting-edge discoveries in the field of microbiome studies.

The candidate will work on a project funded within the DFG Priority Programme “Illuminating Gene Functions in the Human Gut Microbiome” (SPP 2474) and be involved in microbiology and molecular microbiology of the gut microbiota, metaproteomic analyses, functional genomic screens and metagenomic and as well as metabolic modelling of gut microbial communities.

Your profile

• Degree in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related disciplines.

• Previous experience in microbiology/bioinformatics/bacterial genetics would be desirable.

• Knowledge of a scripting language and R is a plus.

• Excellent English communication skills (written and spoken)

Application

Applications, including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, and names of previous supervisor/referees with e-mail addresses should be sent as single pdf via e-mail to: stecher@tum.de no later than July 15th 2025.

Prof. Dr. Bärbel Stecher

For details click here

---

PhD scholarship within Bioinformatics, using data science in microbial metagenomics

The Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) has a vacant 3-year PhD-position related to the discovery of microbial biomarkers for monitoring the ecological state of seafloor sediments.

The project BIOmdARK aims to improve our abilities to find stable biomarker information about seafloor sediment ecological status from the sequencing of environmental microbial DNA. Seafloor samples contain many new or uncharacterized microbial organisms, typically referred to as Biological Dark Matter (BDM). A main idea of this project is to make use of the pattern matching abilities of the Tsetlin Machine in machine learning to be able to recognize signals in the BDM in addition to performing a taxonomic classification in the classical context.

The successful applicant must meet the conditions defined for admission to a PhD programme at NMBU. The applicant must have an academically relevant education corresponding to a five-year master’s degree or a cand.med.vet. degree, with a learning outcome corresponding to the descriptions in the Norwegian Qualification Framework, second cycle. The applicant must have a documented strong academic background relevant to the position and be able to document proficiency in both written and oral English. For more detailed information on the admission criteria please see the PhD Regulations and the relevant PhD programme description.

Required Academic qualifications

• Master's degree (MSc) in Bioinformatics, Data Science or similar fields with a large overlap with these two.
• Excellent skills in coding. We will use both python, R and bash (UNIX shell scripting).

The following experiences and skills will be emphasized:

• Experience with metagenome data analysis.
• Experience with the use of High Performance Computing facilities.
• Insight into a range of machine learning methods and ideas.

Remuneration and further information

For further information, please contact Lars Snipen, professor

E-mail: lars.snipen@nmbu.no

Deadline 15th June 2025

For details click here

---

PhD Studentship: The Last of Us Developing a Genomic Epidemiology Toolkit for Fungal Outbreaks

Drug-resistant fungal infections—caused by species like Candida auris, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Aspergillus fumigatus—pose a growing threat in healthcare, with mortality rates exceeding 50% in immunocompromised patients. Resistance is often acquired before patient infection through environmental exposure to fungicides, highlighting the urgent need for effective outbreak tracking and control.

This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to develop a cutting-edge genomic epidemiology toolkit for real-time fungal surveillance. You’ll optimize DNA extraction protocols using advanced enzyme-based methods, overcoming the tough fungal cell wall. You’ll also design robust workflows for targeted long-read sequencing of clinical and environmental samples, enabling accurate identification and resistance genotyping fungal pathogens from the WHOs fungal priority pathogen list.

In the second part of the PhD, you will build scalable, user-friendly bioinformatics pipelines for rapid genome analysis, tested using samples from the UK Health Security Agency and real-world outbreaks. This interdisciplinary project integrates microbiology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and public health, offering hands-on training and the chance to make a real impact on global infectious disease management. The resulting toolkit will help public health labs worldwide detect and track fungal outbreaks swiftly and accurately.

This project is part of an exciting new Doctoral Training Programme in Microbial Genomics for Health Protection in collaboration with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This is funded by NIHR as part of a Health Protection Unit in Public Health Genomics between the University of Birmingham and UKHSA. In addition to the extensive training offered to all PhD students at UoB, the cohort of  students on this DTP will receive training and opportunities at both UoB and UKHSA in the area of public health genomics.

Applications of a two page CV and covering letter including your experience, suitability and motivation should be sent to hpru-phgenomics@contacts.bham.ac.uk by 31st July 2025.

Supervisors: Dr. Megan McDonald (UoB Biosciences), Dr Lucy Crouch (UoB Institute of Microbiology and Infection), Dr Johanna Rhodes (UoB Biosciences), Dr Joshua Quick (UoB Biosciences), Mycological Reference Lab Bristol (UKHSA) and Dr Charlie Reid (UKHSA).

For details click here

---

Posted on May 30, 2025

16 PhD Fellowships in Neuroscience

Neuroscience Academy Denmark (NAD) offers 16 fully funded PhD fellowships to exceptional and highly motivated candidates pursuing a career in neuroscience. NAD is a collaborative national initiative that brings together the neuroscience research environments of Aalborg University, Aarhus University, University of Copenhagen, and the University of Southern Denmark and includes more than 200 laboratories from these universities. In addition, the neuroscience research environments based at the University hospitals are also active NAD partners.

Programme highlights – What’s in it for you…

• Three lab rotations in excellent neuroscience labs during the pre-PhD year
• Specialised neuroscience courses and workshops
• Retreats and networking events
• The opportunity to design your own PhD project in close collaboration with your PhD supervisor(s)
• Three years of PhD studies in a research lab that aligns with your interests

Application eligibility and requirements

All interested candidates with a documented background in neuroscience are encouraged to apply. You are expected to hold an MD or MSc in fields such as neuroscience, medicine, molecular biomedicine, biochemistry, pharmacology, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics, biology, psychology, computer science, or other relevant areas. What matters most is your sincere interest in neuroscience and documented experience from neuroscience courses, neuroscience projects, or similar activities.

Closing date 30 Jun 2025

For details click here

---

PhD Studentship - MRC Integrative Toxicology

Project Title: Characterising clonal dynamics of somatic mutations in vivo for early prediction of carcinogenicity using advanced error corrected next generation sequencing

Supervisor: Dr Alex Cagan

Department: Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge

Industrial Partner: GSK

Somatic mutations drive cancer and may underlie many chronic diseases - yet current safety testing struggles to detect the earliest signals of carcinogenic risk. This PhD project aims to transform how we evaluate the potential for new drugs and chemicals to cause cancer, by tracking somatic mutations and clonal expansions in rodent tissues using cutting-edge, ultra-accurate error-corrected sequencing (ecNGS).

Working at the interface of evolutionary genomics and toxicology, the student will generate high-resolution maps of mutation burden and cancer driver mutation (CDM) dynamics in response to carcinogenic exposure. By integrating new computational and experimental approaches (e.g. Laser capture microdissection and ecNGS), and accessing samples and expertise through GSK's Investigative Toxicology group, the student will help develop a novel framework for early carcinogenicity prediction. This project offers the rare opportunity to translate high-resolution molecular data into practical tools for non-clinical drug safety and regulatory science. This has the potential to revolutionise our ability to detect and understand the carcinogenic impact of chemical compounds.

To apply please visit: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/ and click 'Apply Now' selecting the following course:

• PhD in Genetics(Full-time)
• Start Date: 1st October 2025
• Project Supervisor: Dr Alex Cagan
• Project Title: Include title as listed above
• Research Proposal: Include project details as listed above

Appy here

---

PhD student in Diabetes Epidemiology and Health Data Science

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide and exerts a disproportionate burden on individuals living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Despite advances in care, traditional risk prediction models like the Steno Type 1 Risk Engine fail to account for the immunological dysregulation inherent in T1D. As part of an ongoing Strategic Research Agreement, the Deep Digital Phenotyping (DDP) research unit at LIH aims to revolutionise cardiovascular risk stratification by integrating deep clinical, digital, and immunological phenotyping.

The PhD candidate will primarily focus on the clinical and epidemiological characterisation of cardiovascular risk among people living with T1D, using multimodal data in the large SFDT1 cohort study. This work will lay the groundwork for developing novel patient clusters and digital phenotypes, leveraging machine learning approaches to identify individuals at high CV risk based on clinical and biochemical markers, immune markers, digital health data (e.g., CGM metrics), and routine laboratory tests.

Key Responsibilities:

 

• Conduct advanced clinical epidemiological analyses using large cohort data (SFDT1, but also REVADIAB, ANGIOSAFE2);
• Apply unsupervised machine learning techniques to derive clinically meaningful clusters based on CV risk factors and digital biomarkers;
• Identify phenotypic extremes to guide downstream immunological analyses;
• Collaborate closely with bioinformaticians, immunologists, and diabetologists to ensure integrated analysis and interpretation;
• Prepare scientific manuscripts for publication and present findings at national and international conferences;
• Participate in strategic planning and dissemination activities in coordination with other partners.

How to apply

Applications including a letter detailing your motivation and a curriculum vitae should be sent through our website via the apply button below.

Apply

---

Posted on May 07, 2025

VIB.AI International PhD Call 2025

Are you curious, committed, and ready to shape the future of AI in biology? VIB.AI is looking for PhD candidates to start in autumn/winter 2025/26!

We are especially interested in recruiting PhD students who are eager to develop and apply artificial intelligence techniques and mechanistic mathematical models to explore fundamental questions in biology. The PhD program is organized in partnership between VIB.AI, the other VIB Centers (CBD, CMN and CSB) and partner universities (KU Leuven, University of Antwerp and Vrije Universiteit Brussel).

 

VIB & VIB.AI offers a unique PhD experience with access to state-of-the-art facilities, expertise, and training. PhD students will have the opportunity to work together with internationally recognized scientists and develop their research projects in an innovative research environment.

At the start of the program, you'll take part in an extended onboarding period that includes specialized courses and hands-on training in AI and machine learning. You'll also have the chance to explore different labs and core facilities, meet fellow researchers, and take part in social and networking activities—all designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and connections to confidently launch your PhD journey.

Requirements:

To be considered for a PhD position, you must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a relevant master’s degree or an equivalent higher education qualification in fields such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology/Neuroscience/Chemistry, Bioengineering, Biotechnology or other related fields
• Demonstrate academic excellence, typically reflected by graduation with distinction (cum laude) or through notable professional accomplishments.
• Relevant experience in interdisciplinary projects involving artificial intelligence and the life sciences is a plus.

Deadline: 22nd June 2025

For details click here

---

 

---

Posted on December, 2023