PhD Position in Computational Biology: Digital Twins & Disease Modeling for Precision Osteoarthritis Treatments

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a complex disease in which multiple tissues in the joint are affected. Recently, multiple OA risk genes were identified based on small genetic variations (SNPs) in the regulatory sequences of these genes. These variations can lead to unfavorable expression of these genes contributing to disease progression. OA patients have different unique combinations of SNPs that lead to OA onset and progression. In this project we will uncover the integrated effects of deviant OA risk gene expression in cartilage with the aim to develop effective disease-modifying therapies. As a PhD student, you will play a central role in this process by building an in silico disease map that models these effects and enables more precise treatments.

You will be part of the multidisciplinary research group of Dr. Janine Post, specializing in quantitative biology and computational approaches to understanding cell fate. This position is ideal for those excited about bridging biology with data science to develop innovative digital twin models for precision medicine.

As a PhD student, you will:

• Build computational models that integrate molecular and genetic data to study possible OA treatments.
• Develop bioinformatics pipelines, network-based approaches, or dynamic models to predict gene regulatory interactions.
• Work with digital twin technology, simulating patient-specific disease progression and treatment responses.
• Collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment, bridging molecular biology, genetics, and computational science.

For inquiries about this position and our offer you can contact Dr. Janine Post (j.n.post@utwente.nl). An application for this position should be via the UTwente application system and be accompanied by:

• A cover letter of at most 1 page A4, explaining your motivation for the application, and why you qualify for this project;
• A Curriculum Vitae, on 2-3 A4 pages, including contact information for at least two academic references;
• Transcripts from your Bachelor and/or Master degrees.

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.