PhD in Analytical Mass Spectrometry-Based Immunopeptidomics/Proteomics

Are you interested in developing new mass spectrometry-based workflows in proteomics and immunopeptidomics? At Utrecht University, we are building an expert team to improve technologies that identify disease-related peptides and advance immunotherapy research. Join us in pushing the boundaries of MS-based analysis.

Your job
Our team studies peptides presented on Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) complexes on the surface of cells, which are recognised by the immune system. These peptides can trigger targeted immune responses to clear infections and tumors or contribute to autoimmune diseases. Identifying disease-driving HLA-bound peptides is crucial for selecting novel targets for immunotherapies.

This project focuses on developing highly sensitive and alternative immunopeptidomics/proteomics workflows, including sample preparation, chromatography, mass spectrometry acquisition, fragmentation, and data analysis. The goal is to enhance the detection of HLA class I and II peptides, both with and without post-translational modifications. Additionally, the project aims to optimise biochemical and bioinformatic quantitative strategies to improve the selection of HLA-bound tumour-specific antigens. You will also collaborate with laboratories within Oncode and the Princess Máxima Institute.

Your main tasks are:

• planning and performing experiments, analysing data, and reporting results;
• communicating with research group and collaborators, and assisting in coordinating students and technical staff when needed;
• writing scientific publications and presenting at national and international conferences;
• operating and maintaining LC-MS instruments (TimsTOF and Orbitraps);
• assisting with laboratory-specific tasks as needed.

You possess multiple of the following qualifications:

• A Master’s degree with experience in chemistry, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, or bioinformatics, with a focus on bioinformatics and LC-MS method development;
• a strong interest in method development, bioanalytical chemistry, chromatography, and mass spectrometry;
• experience in data analysis, statistics, and visualisation;
• hands-on experience in LC-MS-based techniques and related data analysis;
• strong communication skills in English.

• A position for 18 months, with an extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment in the first 18 months;
• a working week of 38 hours and a gross monthly salary between €2,901 and €3,707 (salary scale P 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.

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. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

Working at the Faculty of Science means bringing together inspiring people across disciplines and with a variety of perspectives and backgrounds. The Faculty has six departments: Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Information & Computing Sciences, Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Together, we work on excellent research and inspiring education. We do so, driven by curiosity and supported by outstanding infrastructure. Visit us on LinkedIn and discover how you can become part of our community.

For more information, please contact Fabio Marino at f.marino@uu.nl or Corine Heuzer at c.c.heuzer@uu.nl.

Do you have a question about the application procedure? Please send an email to science.recruitment@uu.nl.

As Utrecht University, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.

To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation, via the ‘apply now’ button.

If this specific opportunity isn’t for you, but you know someone else who may be interested, please forward this vacancy to them.