PhD-position "Development of bacteria-targeted tracers for detection infections"

PhD-position "Development of bacteria-targeted tracers for detection infections"

Closing date: July 20

Project description:

Bacterial infections are a frequently occurring problem in almost all medical disciplines. The incidence is rising due to an increasingly ageing population with comorbidities, increased use of implanted materials, and an increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Many infections can be treated if diagnosed accurately at an early stage, when major damage has not yet occurred. For current imaging techniques the distinction between bacterial infection and other disease states, such as a regular inflammatory response due to the injury, fracture healing, or surgery is a major challenge. Our proposed solution to this problem is a specific methodology of bacteria-targeted imaging. Targeted bacterial imaging would not only allow for specific non-invasive imaging of infection, but might also discriminate between different microorganisms. In our project funded by HTRIC / Ubbo Emmius Fund we aim to develop bacteria-targeted bacterial imaging agents for clinical application. Our approach is two-fold:

• to translate preclinically developed tracers to the clinic and;
• to perform preclinical evaluation studies of newly synthesized tracers.

Your responsibilities will include:

• coordinating and carrying out a scientific research project.
• actively participating in multidisciplinary meetings and project teams.
• developing new bacteria-targeted tracers for infection detection (both fluorescent and PET).
• opportunity to be involved in clinical practice.

Working environment:

Step into our world: at the UMCG, you will work within the departments of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Microbiology, Pharmacy, and Trauma Surgery. You will collaborate closely with chemists, microbiologists, pharmacists, surgeons, and other medical professionals to develop bacteria-targeted tracers for detecting infections across various medical fields, with a particular focus on surgery. As a PhD candidate at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), you will be part of an inspiring work environment where healthcare and technology seamlessly merge. You’ll join a multidisciplinary team working with cutting-edge developments in biomedical technology, tracer development, fluorescence imaging, and surgical techniques.

Candidates should have these qualifications:

• MSc in biomedical engineering, chemistry, (micro)biology, biotechnology or pharmacy.
• Excellent oral and written command of English.
• Excellent communication skills, especially for interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Capable of proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable working in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Affinity with and interest in imaging and the required (bio)chemical techniques in this project is regarded as a preference.

In addition, it is beneficial if you have experience with scientific research and have written scientific articles.

What do we offer

We offer a challenging position in an enthusiastic team of experts in a broad and rapidly evolving field. As a PhD candidate, you will be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary and dedicated team of professionals. At first you will be appointed in a temporary fulltime position (36 hours per week) of one year with the option of renewal for another three years; prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that you will successfully complete your PhD thesis within the next three years. A PhD training program is part of the agreement. Your salary is € 3.108,- gross per month in the first year and up to a maximum of €3.939,-- gross per month in the last fourth year (scale PhD of 1st of July 2025). Additionally, the UMCG offers an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% year-end bonus. The conditions of employment comply with the Collective Labour Agreement for Medical Centres (CAO-UMC). You will have access to excellent research infrastructure, opportunities for international collaboration, and dedicated support for career development and scientific education. All this while living in Groningen, a vibrant and welcoming university city with a great quality of life.

Starting date: September 2025