PhD Position in Mechanistic Understanding of Plant Immune Signalling During Xanthomonas Infections, Netherlands


The Molecular Plant Pathology group invites applications for a PhD Position in Mechanistic Understanding of Plant Immune Signalling During Xanthomonas Infections at the University of Amsterdam. Open to candidates with an MSc in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Plant Biology, or related fields with lab experience.

Candidates must hold an MSc in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Plant Biology, or a related field, have hands-on experience with molecular biology and plant pathology techniques, be proficient in English, and demonstrate a strong interest in plant immune signalling and experimental research.

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, known for its innovative research, diverse academic programs, and vibrant international community. With over 42,000 students from around the world, UvA combines a rich history dating back to 1632 with a modern, cosmopolitan approach to education and research.

Universiteit van Amsterdam Information

Universiteit van Amsterdam Grants

PhD Position in Mechanistic Understanding of Plant Immune Signalling During Xanthomonas Infections, Netherlands Established in 1632, Universiteit van Amsterdam (University of Amsterdam) is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the medium-sized city of Amsterdam (population range of 500,000-1,000,000 inhabitants), North Holland. Officially accredited and/or recognized by the Ministerie van Onderwijs, Cultuur en Wetenschap, Nederland (Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, Netherlands), Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA) is a very large (uniRank enrollment range: 30,000-34,999 students) coeducational higher education institution. Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study matrix below for further details. This 387 years old higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Eligible Countries: All countries
  • Acceptable Course or Subjects: MSc degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Plant Biology, or related fields
  • Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, the applicants must meet all the following criteria:
  • Hold an MSc degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, plant biology, or related fields

  • Demonstrated hands-on experience with techniques such as protein biochemistry, liquid chromatography, cloning, plant growth and infection assays, and plant immune assays

  • Proficiency in English (both written and spoken)

  • Interest in molecular plant pathology and experimental lab work

  • Ability to work in a team and contribute to an international research environment.

Offered Benefits

  • Temporary contract for 38 hours/week for 4 years (initial 18-month contract, extendable)

  • Gross monthly salary: €3.059 – €3.881 (plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus)

  • 232 holiday hours per year

  • Pension contribution through ABP (two-thirds paid by UvA)

  • Comprehensive PhD training program including courses, international conferences, and workshops

  • Support for teaching and supervising students

  • Assistance with relocation, housing, and integration into the Netherlands

  • Opportunities for career development and professional growth

Application Process

In order to apply for this funding program, applicants must apply online at the university.
Applications must include:

  1. A detailed CV (with months included for education and work experience)

  2. A letter of motivation

  3. Names and email addresses of two references

Applications should be submitted online by 23 November 2025. For questions, contact Dr. Sebastian Pfeilmeier (

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