PhD student in ADME and Molecular Toxicology

New Approach Methods (NAMs) for safety assessment are critical tools that contribute towards the replacement of animal models for toxicity testing. Our research group has a strong focus on the development of human in vitro methods. We are looking for a highly motivated and excellent PhD student with a background and interest in human cell culture systems and metabolomics (LC-UV/Vis-MS) to join our team. The PhD project is part of a European consortium that addresses the development in vitro cell systems to predict ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion) parameters of test compounds. The student will focus mainly on development and deployment of kidney in vitro models with the aim to characterise renal transport and metabolism of compounds that may contribute to toxicity.

Your duties

• Culturing and differentiation of human renal cell system, including induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived models
• Metabolomics analysis of xenobiotic metabolism
• Transport studies in renal cell systems on transwells and organ-on a chip microfluidic set up
• Data analysis, including analytical workflows
• Conduct research within the scope of the project leading to a dissertation;
• Publish scientific articles and present research results at conferences;
• Supervision of MSc and BSc students;
• Collaborate within the team and with other international researchers.

A challenging position in a socially involved organization. The salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel and amounts €2,541 (PhD) per month during the first year and increases to €3,247 (PhD) per month during the fourth year, based on a full-time employment. The job profile: is based on the university job ranking system and is vacant for at least 1 FTE.

The appointment will initially be for 1 year. After a satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, the contract will be extended for a duration of 4 years.
Additionally, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers excellent fringe benefits and various schemes and regulations to promote a good work/life balance, such as:

• a maximum of 41 days of annual leave based on full-time employment;
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus;
• solid pension scheme (ABP);
• possibility to save holiday hours, for sabbatical leave;
• child day care facilities available on campus

The ambition of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is clear: to contribute to a better world through outstanding education and ground-breaking research. We strive to be a university where personal development and commitment to society play a leading role. A university where people from different disciplines and backgrounds collaborate to achieve innovations and to generate new knowledge. Our teaching and research encompass the entire spectrum of academic endeavor - from the humanities, the social sciences and the natural sciences through to the life sciences and the medical sciences.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is home to more than 30,000 students. We employ over 5,500 individuals. The VU campus is easily accessible and located in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas district, a truly inspiring environment for teaching and research.

Diversity
We are an inclusive university community. Diversity is one of our most important values. We believe that engaging in international activities and welcoming students and staff from a wide variety of backgrounds enhances the quality of our education and research. We are always looking for people who can enrich our world with their own unique perspectives and experiences.

The Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science inspires researchers and students to find sustainable solutions for complex societal issues. From forest fires to big data, from obesity to medicines and from molecules to the moon: our teaching and research programmes cover the full spectrum of the natural sciences. We share knowledge and experience with leading research institutes and industries, both here in the Netherlands and abroad.

Working at the Faculty of Science means working with students, PhD candidates and researchers, all with a clear focus on their field and a broad view of the world. We employ more than 1,250 staff members, and we are home to more than 11,000 students.

Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology
At the division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology section, dept of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences research is carried out to study the molecular mechanisms underlying the toxic effects of drugs and other chemicals. Using innovative cellular model systems, state-of-the-art metabolomics approaches and computer simulation methods, the mechanism by which chemicals can cause adverse effects are investigated. The section is also involved in education within Bachelor's and Master's degree programs in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Medical Natural Sciences and Biomolecular Sciences.

Diversity
Diversity is one of our university's core values. We are an inclusive community, and we believe that diversity and international activities enhance the quality of education and research. We are always looking for people who can enhance diversity on our campus thanks to their background and experience.