PhD candidate, Computational modelling of cytokine networks in T cells

Teaser Text

The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR) are looking for a:

 

PhD candidate, Computational modelling of cytokine networks in T cells

 

Are you an expert in the development of computational models that describe the dynamics of biological systems, aiming to apply such models to real-world biological data? As part of our enthusiastic team you will employ computational dynamical modelling approaches in order to understand cytokine-mediated regulation in T cells and their effect on tumour targets. Within our team at the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR) we are looking to hire a PhD student to develop such models and apply them to experimental data on T cells, target cells and their interactions, acquired by experimental collaborators.

 

Project description

T cells play an important role in guarding us against invading pathogens and cancer progression. Cytokines are key factors in the communication between T cells and other cells, and their production is tightly regulated through intricate regulatory mechanisms. However, these regulatory networks are highly complex and intertwined, making it difficult to intuitively understand how they function and contribute quantitatively to immune responses. 

 

In this ZonMW-funded PhD project, computational models will be developed to provide a quantitative understanding of cytokine regulatory networks in T cells at molecular level, and how they affect T cells themselves as well as tumour targets at population level. To this purpose, computational models ranging from ordinary differential equation models to spatially explicity agent-based models will be developed. These models aim to describe experimental measurements by Monika Wolkers’ lab (Amsterdam UMC/Sanquin) on cytokine responses at mRNA and protein level in single cells, and on cell population level responses like cell proliferation and cell death. Note that the work of the PhD student is purely computational, but close collaboration with experimentalists generating the data is required.

 

What you will do

• Process and analyse experimental data (e.g., flow cytometry, imaging) acquired by collaborators.
• Develop computational models of T cell and target cell responses.
• Apply the developed computational models to the experimental data by parameter calibration.
• Come up with model improvements and approaches to test resulting hypotheses.
• Communicate with collaborators on obtained results and potential issues with data.
• Train BSc and MSc students in computational research skills during courses and research projects.
• Follow developments in the field by reading literature and participating in relevant conferences.
• Publish in internationally renowned scientific journals.

What you bring

• Either an MSc degree in a mathematical or computational discipline (preferably in computational biology/immunology), with a strong interest in or experience with biological/immunological questions; or an MSc degree in a biomedical discipline, with computational modeling experience (preferably in dynamical modeling approaches).
• Experience with development of computational dynamical models such as differential equation models or spatially explicit agent-based models.
• Experience with analysis of data sets (e.g., flow cytometry, imaging).
• Proficient in spoken and written English.
• A creative thinker and team player that can work independently.

Where you will work

Curiosity and passion for science are what connect our people: the desire to know, understand, interpret, explain and create. Our mission is to provide excellent teaching and research across the full breadth of the sciences, contributing to solutions for major societal challenges. Our eight institutes, ranging from mathematics, computer science, astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biopharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences, along with the Lorentz Center and the Hortus botanicus, form the backbone of our faculty and have a strong mutual interconnectedness.    We work in a safe, stimulating and international environment where people work and study with pleasure and passion, and where building connections and collaboration, both within and beyond the faculty, are a clear choice. The faculty has over 2,700 staff members and more than 6,000 students enrolled in nine bachelor's and fifteen master's programmes. We are located in the heart of the Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s largest science parks, where academia and industry meet.  

You will be working in the division of Cell Systems and Drug Safety at the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR). You will be part of the Image-Based Computational Biology group (IBCB).

What we offer

A full-time, one year term position, with the possibility of renewal for an additional maximum of three years based on performance. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from € 3.059,- per month in the first year to € 3.881,- gross per month in the fourth year based on a full-time position (pay scale P). The position is available from 1 September 2026 onwards.

 

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Moreover, full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel are offered. 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. For more information, see the website.

 

All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science (see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/graduate-school-of-science). Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.

  For more information about employment conditions, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions

What we value

Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. We strive to be an open community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to fully develop themselves. We consider an inclusive academic environment, where students and staff can share their experiences and viewpoints, to be essential for the development of talent.

Want to apply or find out more?

If you would like more information, please contact Dr. Joost Beltman, Associate Professor, j.b.beltman@lacdr.leidenuniv.nl.

 

You can find more information about the faculty of Science at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/about-faculty-of-science. For more information about working at Leiden university please visit https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at.

 

Are you enthusiastic about this vacancy? We are looking forward to get to know you. To apply for this vacancy, please submit your application online via the blue button below.

 

Please ensure that you include the following additional documents:

• A letter explaining your motivation, background, and qualifications for this specific position;
• A detailed curriculum vitae;
• Copies of diplomas and grade lists;
• Contact details of three persons who can be contacted for reference.

 

Only applications received before 14 June 2026 can be considered.