PhD candidate on a stem cell-derived model of the trabecular meshwork

Welcome to Maastricht University!
We seek a PhD candidate to join our team developing in vitro models and cell therapies for ophthalmic diseases and conditions. The overall aim of this project is to develop an in vitro stem cell–derived model of the trabecular meshwork to advance our understanding of its biology in both physiological and pathological states, thereby contributing to improved treatments for patients with glaucoma.

The trabecular meshwork is a specialized tissue located in the anterior chamber of the eye that regulates aqueous humor outflow and, consequently, intraocular pressure. Proper function of this tissue is essential for maintaining ocular homeostasis. In glaucoma, dysfunction and degeneration of trabecular meshwork cells impair fluid drainage, leading to elevated intraocular pressure and progressive damage to the optic nerve, ultimately resulting in vision loss.

Our team has identified the lack of robust, high-quality in vitro models as a major barrier to advancing the field. To address this, we aim to differentiate pluripotent stem cells into trabecular meshwork–like cells, perform comprehensive molecular and functional analyses, and leverage these models to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving disease onset and progression.

The PhD candidate will design, execute, and analyze experiments using human cells and tissues, including stem cell differentiation, advanced molecular profiling, and functional assays. They will contribute to the interpretation and integration of complex transcriptomic datasets and disseminate their findings through presentations at scientific meetings and publications in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, approximately 5% of their time will be dedicated to teaching-related activities, such as tutoring, supervising students, or assisting in practical courses.

Requirements
Applicants should hold a master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., cell biology, biomedical sciences, molecular biology, or a related discipline) or demonstrate a clear affinity for the project through relevant experience if their educational background differs. Applicants who have not yet completed their master’s degree but expect to graduate within the current academic year are also welcome to apply.

Applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree in a system where direct entry into a PhD is standard (e.g., USA) are encouraged to apply without a master’s degree, provided they can demonstrate substantial independent research experience (such as a research thesis and/or extracurricular research activities).

As part of the application, candidates will be asked to briefly describe their expertise and experience in the following areas:

• Wet lab techniques (e.g., qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence)
• Cell culture techniques
• Stem cell differentiation
• Cell and/or molecular biology

Prior experience in ophthalmology or vision research is not required.

Proficiency in academic English (spoken and written) is required. Knowledge of Dutch is not necessary.

What we offer

At Maastricht University, you’ll work in an international, open, and engaged environment. We offer: 

• A 12-month contract (1,0 FTE) with the prospect of a 3 year extension. 
• A gross monthly salary between €3059,00 and €3881,00 (based on full-time employment of 38 hours per week). 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus. 
• 29 vacation days (based on full-time), four additional days off (Carnival Monday and Tuesday, Good Friday, and Liberation Day), and the possibility to accrue up to 12 extra days through compensation hours. 
• Flexible working hours, a home office allowance, and the option to work from home. 
• Freedom and space to shape your work independently and develop your ideas. 
• A close-knit community of colleagues to collaborate and grow with. 
• A solid pension plan via ABP, company fitness schemes, and access to various university sports facilities. 
• An inspiring work environment in the heart of Europe. 

Employer
The successful candidate will have a cross-disciplinary supervision team comprising: Dr Birke Benedikter (University Eye Clinic Maastricht), Dr Vanessa LaPointe (MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine), and Prof. Henny Beckers (University Eye Clinic Maastricht).

The practical research will mainly be conducted in Dr LaPointe’s laboratory at the MERLN Institute, Maastricht University (www.lapointelab.com). At MERLN (www.merlninstitute.com), we foster a collaborative, international, and interdisciplinary environment with expertise spanning biomaterials science, tissue engineering, and cell biology. Our team shares state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment, creating an ideal setting for cutting-edge research and innovation.

Additional expertise, resources, and facilities are available at the University Eye Clinic/Maastricht University Medical Center+, one of the largest academic ophthalmology departments in Europe. The department is built on a strong foundation of medical education, research, and clinical care. Scientific work is focused on glaucoma, corneal diseases, and cataract, aiming to understand disease mechanisms and develop impactful treatments. This is supported by dedicated research infrastructure, including the Eye Tissue Bank Maastricht, which houses clinical data, biofluids, and surgical tissue of ocular disease patients. Within the University Eye Clinic, Dr Benedikter’s research focuses on in vitro disease modelling and molecular profiling to develop biomarkers and pharmaceutical therapies, while Prof. Henny Beckers leads translational glaucoma research on intraocular pressure lowering surgeries, including development of innovative surgical procedures and implantable devices.

Additional information
Doing a PhD in the Netherlands
For those unfamiliar with the Dutch PhD system, it is the norm to take four years to complete the laboratory work for the degree and submit a thesis comprising several experimental chapters (which can be published papers). It is a full-time research degree, with only optional coursework. A PhD candidate can expect to spend ~5% of their time teaching or supervising students. PhD candidates are paid a monthly salary and receive benefits along with two bonuses given annually. Candidates who need to relocate may be eligible for compensation. The terms of employment are set out in the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO-UNL), and local Maastricht University provisions also apply (see www.maastrichtuniversity.nl). 

Applying from abroad?
MERLN hosts researchers from around the globe who have successfully navigated the transition to living in the Netherlands. Maastricht University, recognized as the most international university in the Netherlands, is home to more than 22,000 students and 5,000 employees. With its high-quality research and education, alongside a strong commitment to social engagement, Maastricht University has established itself as one of the world’s top young universities.

Located in the heart of Europe, Maastricht is a charming and welcoming city. Known for its fine cuisine, excellent shopping, and multicultural atmosphere, the city offers a unique international community. As the founding city of the European Union, Maastricht is home to residents from all over the world, and English is widely spoken, contributing to its vibrant global character. Thanks to its central location, Maastricht is just a short drive from Belgium, Germany, France, Luxembourg, and other parts of the Netherlands. The city is family-friendly, offering an international school and several excellent primary schools.

Application timeline
Applicants can expect to hear from us within two weeks of the application deadline. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in brief video interviews. Those advancing to the second round will attend either an in-person interview or an extended video call. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

The start date for this position is flexible; however, our preference is to begin as soon as possible.

To apply
Please attach a CV and answer the questions in the application. Do not include any additional documents (e.g., cover letter, references, diplomas, etc.) as they will not be considered. The online platform requires you to upload a cover letter, but it can be a blank document or a second copy of your CV. 

For more information, please contact Dr Vanessa LaPointe (v.lapointe@maastrichtuniversity.nl).