PhD candidate on Tailored prebiotics to improve Gut Health

The Microbiome research group within the Department of Medical Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Infection Physiology (Maastricht University) together with the department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology is looking for a highly motivated and talented PhD-candidate (1.0 fte) to join our team in an innovative project investigating the role of prebiotics in mitigating the negative impact of antibiotics on the gut microbiome and combating multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria.

Job Description
Antibiotics, while essential in treating infections, disrupt the gut microbiome and contribute to the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. The human gut acts as a key reservoir for these bacteria, with colonization often preceding infections. This project explores prebiotic-based interventions to restore microbial balance after antibiotic exposure and enhance resistance to MDR colonization. Using highthroughput ex vivo screening, we will test prebiotic formulations in infant and adult fecal samples to identify optimal strategies. The findings will inform a proof-of-principle intervention study, paving the way for novel microbiome-targeted solutions to combat antimicrobial resistance.

We offer a challenging and transdisciplinary project integrated in a well-equipped and scientifically stimulating environment. Being embedded within our research school NUTRIM (Nutritional & Translational Research in Metabolism) and linked to the Euregional Microbiome Center you will have unique training opportunities. You will be trained and supervised in cutting edge technologies (whole metagenome sequencing, computational biology and metagenomic epidemiology). You will be involved in planning and conducting the ex vivo laboratory experiments, next-generation sequencing, setting-up and execution the human intervention study, analyzing and interpreting the obtained data, and reporting and presenting the research results.

Requirements

• Master degree in a relevant Life Sciences discipline: (medical) biology, microbiology, biomedical sciences;
• Strong interest in (molecular) microbiology;
• Experience with data analysis (e.g., using R) is an advantage but not a requirement. We are looking for a candidate who is motivated to develop expertise in handling and interpreting complex (omics) datasets, with training opportunities available;
• Previous experience with in vitro models is an advantage;
• A real researcher’s mentality: open-minded, curious, creative, enthusiastic, motivated, persevering, and accurate; 
• Team player with good organizational, communication and social skills, and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment;
• Excellent spoken and written English.

What we offer
As a PhD candidte at the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, you will be employed by the most international university in the Netherlands, located in the beautiful city of Maastricht. In addition, we offer you:

• Good employment conditions. The position is graded according to UFO profile PhD, with corresponding salary from €2901,00 in the first year and €3707,00 gross per month in the fourth year (based on a full-time employment of 38 hours per week). In addition to the monthly salary, an 8.0% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus apply.
• An employment contract for a period of 12 months with a scope of 1,0 FTE. Upon a positive evaluation, an extension of 3 years will follow. 
• At Maastricht University, the well-being of our employees is of utmost importance, we offer flexible working hours and the possibility to work partly from home if the nature of your position allows it. You will receive a monthly commuting and internet allowance for this. If you work full-time, you will be entitled to 29 vacation days and 4 additional public holidays per year, namely carnival Monday, carnival Tuesday, Good Friday, and Liberation Day. If you choose to accumulate compensation hours, an additional 12 days will be added. Furthermore, you can personalize your employment conditions through a collective labor agreement (CAO) choice model. 
• As Maastricht University, we offer various other excellent secondary employment conditions. These include a good pension scheme with the ABP and the opportunity for UM employees to participate in company fitness and make use of the extensive sports facilities that we also offer to our students. 
• Last but certainly not least, we provide the space and facilities for your personal and professional development. We facilitate this by offering a wide range of training programs and supporting various well-established initiatives such as 'acknowledge and appreciate'. 
   

The terms of employment at Maastricht University are largely set out in the collective labor agreement of Dutch Universities. In addition, local provisions specific to UM apply. For more information, click here.

Maastricht University
Why work at Maastricht University?

At Maastricht University (UM), everything revolves around the future. The future of our students, as we work to equip them with a solid, broad-based foundation for the rest of their lives. And the future of society, as we seek solutions through our research to issues from all around the world. Our six faculties combined provide a comprehensive package of study programmes and research.

In our teaching, we use the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method. Students work in small groups, looking for solutions to problems themselves. By discussing issues and working together to draw conclusions, formulate answers and present them to their peers, students develop essential skills for their future careers.

With over 22,300 students and more than 5,000 employees from all over the world, UM is home to a vibrant and inspiring international community.

Are you drawn to an international setting focused on education, science and scholarship? Are you keen to contribute however your skills and qualities allow? Our door is open to you! As a young European university, we value your talent and look forward to creating the future together.

Click here for more information about UM. 

Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences
At the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (FHML), everything revolves around healthy living. Our research and education are not solely focused on recovery, but place a strong emphasis on prevention, health preservation, and health promotion. Our aim is to use our knowledge and expertise to genuinely contribute to the well-being of individual people as well as society in total. 

In, research, and healthcare, FHML is closely collaborating with the academic hospital in Maastricht, together forming the Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+).  FHML is strongly connected in education, research, and care with the Maastricht academic hospital, together with which it forms the Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+). 

FHML, which is the largest faculty of Maastricht University, is formed by an (inter)national community of employees and students. The faculty offers a wide range of Dutch and English-taught bachelor's and master's programs in innovative educational concepts in which the emphasis is always on building bridges to practice.
 

The multidisciplinary research of the FHML focuses on a number of carefully chosen topical current themes. In addition to research aimed at gaining new insights, it also concerns research whose results can be directly translated into concrete applications and innovations. The implementation of the various research programs is organized in our six graduate schools and two institutes.

 
Curious?
Are you interested in this exciting position but still have questions? Feel free to contact Prof. John Penders at j.penders@maastrichtuniversity.nl or +31 43 875134 for more information.

Applying?
Or are you already convinced and ready to become our new PhD candidate? Apply now, no later than 9 March 2025, for this position.
 

An orientation day can be part of the application procedure.

The vacancy is open for internal and external candidates. In case of equal qualifications, internal candidates will be prioritized.

Maastricht University is committed to promoting and nurturing a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that diversity in our staff and student population contributes to the quality of research and education at UM, and strive to enable this through inclusive policies and innovative projects led by teams of staff and students. We encourage you to apply for this position.