PhD student mycetoma drug target discovery

Job description

Eumycetoma is a tropical neglected infectious disease characterised by massive tumourlike lesions on the foot. In may 2016 it was recognized by the WHO as a neglected tropical disease. Within these lesions the fungal causative agent will form grains which act as a shield for antimicrobial agents. This makes the disease difficult to treat, with a poor therapeutic outcome and 25% of the patients undergoing amputation. In order to improve the treatment of mycetoma, we need to identify novel drug targets. 

In this project we are therefore looking for an enthusiastic PhD candidate who use a combination of transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to identify fungal genes and proteins involved in mycetoma development. To determine which of these genes are essential for mycetoma development knock-outs will be created.  This project is part of a large international consortium and international exchange visits can be part of the project. 

During your PhD trajectory you will combine computional analysis and wet-lab experiments. You will be supervised by a supervisor and co-supervisor and have weekly meetings to monitor your progress. You will have the opportunity to present your results internationally within the consortium as well as during international conferences. 

Work environment

The Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (MMID) employs more than 130 employees of different disciplines. Medical microbiologists, infectious diseases specialists, technicians, and infection control practitioners work closely together with professionals of other departments to treat and prevent infections in patients in the Erasmus MC. Research is focused on 3 topics: 1) emerging antimicrobial resistance; 2) healthcare-related infections; 3) emerging infections of global importance. The Department of MMID harbors well-equipped diagnostic (ISO 15189 accredited) and research laboratories, in which a large variety of techniques are operational. This PhD position is part of the mycetoma group at the department MMID, which currently consists of an international group consisting of the principal investigator, two post-doctoral scientists, three PhD students and two technicians. 

Qualifications and skills

You are a highly motivated and creative junior researcher who is eager to combine wet-lab and computational research to advance the treatment of mycetoma.

• MSc in Biology, Medical Biology, Bioinformatics, or a similar field.
• Experience in cell transcriptomics, proteomics, and/or microbiological research.
• Ability to conduct innovative research, both independently and as part of a strong team.
• Accuracy and thoroughness in your work.
• Good command of the English language, both verbally and in writing.

Before you apply please check our conditions for employment.

Terms of employment

• You will receive a temporary position for 4 years.  
• The gross monthly salary is € 3.217,- in the 1st year and it gradually increases to € 4.077,- in the 4th year (scale OIO) based on a full-time workweek of 36 hours.
• A salary increase of 3,5% from May 2027, according to the collective labor agreement (CLA).
• Partial working from home is possible, as is working 4 x 9 hours.
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and an individual travel expense package.
• An International Office which aids you in preparing for your arrival and stay.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as an incompany physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. And there is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work.

More information

Make this vacancy your next career opportunity! Apply now via the application button. It starts with taking action.

Do you have any questions about the position? Wendy van de Sande, Associate Professor, will be happy to answer them. You can contact her via [email protected].

No agencies please.