PhD candidate position Da Silva lab - Center for Molecular Medicine UMC Utrecht

In this project, you will explore the drivers and consequences of localized translation, following up on our recent work (Ramalho et al, 2025, Sci Adv). You will combine ribosome profiling and organoid models with molecular and computational approaches to uncover how specific ribosome populations control metabolic and differentiation programs. As a PhD student in a young and growing lab, you will work closely with the group leader and a senior research technician, gaining hands-on experience with state-of-the-art methods while actively shaping the direction of your project. The CMM provides an inspiring, interdisciplinary environment where curiosity, creativity, and collaboration are central.

In this PhD project, you will study how and why certain ribosomes localize to specific parts of the cell, what they translate there, and how this affects metabolism and cell fate.

Your main tasks will include:

• Designing and performing molecular and cellular experiments.
• Establishing and maintaining intestinal organoid cultures.
• Preparing and analyzing ribosome profiling (RiboSeq) and RNA-seq libraries.
• Integrating experimental data with computational analyses to identify localized translation signatures.
• Collaborating closely with the group leader and lab members to develop the lab’s research direction.

This project offers a unique opportunity to tackle cutting-edge questions at the interface of RNA biology, metabolism, and cell fate, while building expertise in genomics, bioinformatics, and organoid technology.

We are looking for a curious and motivated PhD candidate who is eager to understand how molecular mechanisms shape cell behavior. You enjoy working in an experimental setting, are not afraid to learn new techniques, and value rigorous and reproducible science. You are someone who communicates openly, enjoys teamwork, and takes initiative in your own learning and development. This position is ideal for candidates who want to grow at the interface of molecular biology, translation, and metabolism, and who are excited to be part of a new and collaborative research team.

You are a driven scientist with a solid background in molecular and cellular biology and a strong motivation to pursue fundamental research.

Required qualifications:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
• Experience with molecular biology and mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Enthusiasm for both curiosity- and hypothesis-driven research.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with or interest in ribosome profiling, RNA-seq, or related sequencing-based methods.
• Affinity for computational biology or scripting is advantageous.
• Experience with organoid cultures or stem cell models is a plus.

For more information, please contact Joana Silva (j.r.fariadasilva@umcutrecht.nl). If you would like to apply, please send your CV, a motivation letter, and the contact details of two referees. The starting date is flexible, ideally in the first quarter of 2026, and the position is for a duration of four years.

The maximum salary for this position (36 - 36 hours) is € 3.108,00 gross per month based on full-time employment.

In addition, we offer an annual benefit of 8.3%, holiday allowance, travel expenses and career opportunities. The terms of employment are in accordance with the Cao University Medical Centers (UMC).

The CMM is a research institute within the University Medical Center Utrecht, where more than 180 researchers work together to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive human disease. The CMM combines fundamental and translational research with a strong focus on collaboration and scientific excellence. Research at the CMM spans a broad range of topics, including genetics, cell biology, metabolism, and regenerative medicine. Our lab is part of this diverse and interdisciplinary environment, and is especially focused on how RNA translation regulates metabolism and cell fate decisions. With access to advanced facilities and a strong academic network, the CMM offers an ideal setting for those interested in contributing to high-quality, curiosity-driven biomedical research.