• A Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Virology, Molecular Biology, Structural Biology, or a related discipline.
• Hands-on experience with protein expression and purification, ideally involving recombinant membrane or viral proteins.
• A strong interest in virus–host interactions, viral replication mechanisms, and antiviral drug development.
• Experience with, or a clear motivation to learn, cryo-EM data collection, image processing, and 3D structural analysis.
• Prior experience with cryo-EM single-particle analysis (SPA) and/or cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) is a strong advantage, but not a requirement.
• Background knowledge in virology or protein biochemistry is beneficial.
• Ability to drive projects independently as well as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary research team.
• Strong problem-solving skills, a well-organised approach to research, and excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Enthusiasm for mentoring undergraduate or Master’s students and contributing to a supportive research environment.
• Motivation to stay up to date with relevant literature in virology, structural biology, and antiviral development.

• A fully funded, four-year PhD position within an internationally recognized virology and structural biology laboratory.
• a working week of 36 - 40 hours and a gross monthly salary between € 2.901 and €3.707 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University has a number of schemes and facilities of its own for employees. This includes schemes facilitating professional development, leave schemes and schemes for sports and cultural activities, as well as discounts on software and other IT products. We also offer access to additional employee benefits through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage our employees to continue to invest in their growth. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

As Utrecht University, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.

To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation, via the ‘apply now’ button.

For more information, please contact Dr. Daniel Hurdiss at d.l.hurdiss@uu.nl.

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.