The proposed PhD project is part of a recently funded multidisciplinary research programme (Vidi). The research group focuses on studying complex systems such as biological membranes and bioinspired nano materials with state-of-the-art computional methods. Main goals are to (i) elucidate the mechanisms and free energy landscape of protein-mediated membrane processes such as, for example, biological membrane fusion or fission, and (ii) to explore potential applications of biomaterials within material- or life sciences. The aimed candidate will explore the molecular mechanisms on how fusion of lipid membranes can be controlled by natural or designed effectors.

• Master’s degree in (Bio)Chemistry, Physics or equivalent;
• Good to excellent proficiency in English;
• Ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment;
• Experience in computational methods (e.g., molecular simulation methods or theoretical chemistry);
• Solid knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics;
• Experience in programming (e.g., C, C++, python);
• The PhD research needs to start before December 2018.

We offer a position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities and compatibility the appointment will be extended by a further three years. Salary range from €2,222 to €2,840 gross per month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. More at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions.  

All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science https://www.staff.universiteitleiden.nl/research/phds. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.

Universiteit Leiden

Leiden is a typical university city, hosting the oldest university in the Netherlands (1575). The University permeates the local surroundings; University premises are scattered throughout the city, and the students who live and study in Leiden give the city its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

Leiden University is one of Europe's foremost research universities. This prominent position gives our graduates a leading edge in applying for academic posts and for functions outside academia. More at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at.

https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/werken-bij

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programs. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 1,300 staff and almost 4,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

The chemistry and life science research in the Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) is organized around two major research areas: ‘Chemical Biology’ and ‘Energy & Sustainability’. The institute’s research themes illustrate the central position of chemistry between biology, medicine and physics. The various research topics carried out within these themes are ideal for executing interdisciplinary research. For more information, see www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science. For more information about our research see www.stocs.net.

https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science