PhD candidate in the field of structural biology

The Faculty of Science Leiden and Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Department of Macromolecular Biochemistry are looking for a

PhD candidate, to study the molecular mechanisms of mycobacterial porins

Work and profile
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. A critical factor in its survival and pathogenicity is the ability to acquire nutrients across the highly impermeable, mycolic acid-rich outer membrane of the mycobacterial cell envelope. This membrane functions as a selective barrier, conferring intrinsic resistance to many antibiotics while also complicating nutrient uptake. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying nutrient transport across this barrier remain poorly understood.

Our lab focuses on a specialized transport system in mycobacteria involving members of the PPE protein family, which have been implicated in the uptake of small molecules such as sugars, siderophores, and ions across the outer membrane.

In this PhD project, the student will investigate the three-dimensional structure and molecular mechanism of PPE porins using biochemical, microbiological, and biophysical approaches, with an emphasis on cryo-electron microscopy. We aim to determine how PPE proteins mediate selective small-molecule transport and how structural insights into these outer membrane porins can guide drug development strategies to enhance compound uptake.

Selection criteria

• A Master’s degree in in biochemistry, life-science technology or equivalent
• Proven interest in either protein structure and function or the molecular basis of infectious diseases
• Previous experience with either cryo-EM or the biochemical characterization of porins or electrophysiological experiments are desirable
• Proficient in English with excellent oral and written communication skills
• The ability to work efficiently, both independently and as part of a team of international researchers

Description of organisation and terms of employment
The position starts by 01.11.2025. We offer a position for 1 year initially with a possibility of extension to a full PhD contract upon satisfactory performance. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from € 2.901,- to € 3.707,- gross per month.

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

Faculty
The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelors’ and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and over 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

University
Leiden University is one of Europe’s leading international research universities.

Thanks to its committed and inspired employees, the university enjoys a leading role in academic research and education. Leiden also scores very well every year in prominent rankings. This means that, to maintain our position, the bar is set very high. Regardless of the work you do at our university, you are always encouraged to broaden your horizons, develop your talents and reach your full potential. Will you become our newest colleague?

Do you have questions about this position? Please contact Dr. Sebastian Geibel, Associate Professor, s.r.j.geibel@lic.leidenuniv.nl