The University of Amsterdam welcomes applications for a PHD position in Developing New Approach Methods to Study the Effect of EDC.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are substances that alter the function of the endocrine system and negatively affect human and animal health. Working within the Horizon Europe project, MERLON (Merging Scientific Evidence with Regulatory Practices and Leveraging Identification of Endocrine Disruptors Using New Approach Methodologies), the faculty is looking for a PhD candidate to develop New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) focusing on the effects of EDCs and how they impact neuro- and sexual development.
In this PhD project, the candidate will work with zebrafish embryos and the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans to study how exposure to EDCs during early-life stages will lead to adverse health effects. He/she will also investigate endpoints and health outcomes that are currently not properly addressed in internationally accepted test guidelines. Multi-generational inherited effects will be assessed using C. elegans, and transcriptomic analysis will support cross-species prediction of EDC-mediated effects. This data will feed into the development of adverse outcome pathways (AOPs), including quantitative AOP (qAOP) development, allowing the assessment of thresholds needed to cause an adverse effect.
Duration: 4 years
Salary
- a salary of € 2.770,00 (PhD) and maximum € 3.539,00 (PhD) gross per month in the fourth year for full-time employment
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
- solid pension scheme (ABP)
- discount on (and occasionally exclusive access to) theatre performances and courses at the Griffioen Cultural Centre
- a wide range of sports facilities, which staff may use at a modest charge
Job Requirements
Applicants for this position must meet the following criteria:
- Have an MSc degree in Life Sciences, Cell or Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field with an interest in Toxicology
- Have an affinity for the field of Endocrinology, Developmental Neurotoxicology or Neuroscience, and/or Endocrine Disruption
- Good wet lab experimental skills, preferably with experience in in vitro (toxicity) studies, molecular biology and biochemical assays
- Highly motivated multi-tasker with a curiosity for science and attention to detail
- Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with others
- Willingness to alternate between two locations, depending on the results and progress of the project (RIVM Bilthoven/Utrecht and VU Amsterdam)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English at a level appropriate to scientific research
Application Process
Interested applicants are welcome to submit their application with the following documents:
- a letter in which describe your abilities and motivation for applying to the position
- a detailed curriculum vitae with two or three references
- a list of grades, TOEFL and/or IETLS scores (if available)
To apply for the PHD Position: Developing New Approach Methods to Study the Effect of EDC, click here.
Deadline: April 02, 2024.
For more information on PHD Position: Developing New Approach Methods to Study the Effect of EDC, visit the official site.
