We are excited to announce an opening for the position of Postdoctoral Associate in Veterinary and Comparative Pharmacology within the Institute of Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS) at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Utrecht University.

Your job
Our mission is to lead the way in veterinary and comparative pharmacology research, always with a keen focus on embracing comparative approaches and cutting-edge methodologies. A key aspect of our philosophy is the prioritisation of animal health and welfare, ensuring we consistently strike a balance between the therapeutic benefits of veterinary medicines and their potential risks to humans and the environment.

As we envision the future, we see a world where our advanced research in veterinary and comparative pharmacology not only optimises both animal and human health but also does so while minimising our ecological footprint. Furthermore, we’re working towards markedly reducing the necessity for animal models in biomedical research.

As a Postdoctoral Associate with us, you would play an instrumental role in guiding our PhD candidates on their research paths. We would also rely on you to actively contribute to our scholarly publications, helping to spread our research findings and methodologies. Another central part of your role will involve assisting in the growth of our research programme. This will entail identifying new funding opportunities and contributing to the development of impactful research proposals. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the education of future veterinarians with regard to fundamental pharmacological and toxicological principles.

In joining our team, you’ll collaborate with a collegial group that is truly passionate about animal health and welfare. Our department is a melting pot of diversity, with team members who specialise in everything from ground-breaking research to top-tier teaching, and dedicated patient care.
This position is a 2-year contract, but for those who excel in their role and demonstrate a commitment to our mission and vision, there’s potential for renewal. This is contingent on both individual performance and funding availability.

Your academic background should include a PhD degree in veterinary medicine/sciences, pharmacology, toxicology or biomedical sciences. We’re particular interested in those with proficiency in pharmacokinetic modeling, bioanalytical chemistry and a strong foundation in mechanistic and physiologically-based modeling. Beyond your academic and professional skills, we are seeking someone who embodies the qualities of a true team player and an effective communicator. Your analytical thinking ability, combined with a genuine interest in veterinary medicine and One Health, will be invaluable. Efficiency, accuracy, precision, flexibility, and a well-organised approach to work are essential traits we’re seeking.

If you’re ready to innovate in the field of veterinary and comparative pharmacology and are eager to drive change for a more ethical and scientifically advance future, we invite you to join us on this journey.

• a position (1.0 FTE) for 2 years, with possibility to extend;
• A working week of 36 hours and a gross monthly salary between € 3.226,- and € 5.090,- in the case of full-time employment (salary scale 10 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.

Universiteit Utrecht

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Shaping science, sharing tomorrow.

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine has a unique position in the Netherlands. Not only is this the only institution where veterinarians are trained, researchers are also working together on innovative scientific research. Furthermore the faculty delivers expert clinical care at the University Animal Hospital. Thanks to this position, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is a point of contact for all veterinary matters, both nationally and increasingly internationally. The faculty employs approximately 900 veterinarians, scientists and support staff and counts 1,500 students. It is is located at the Utrecht Science Park, near the historical city centre of Utrecht.