PhD candidate; Mechanism and assembly of type VII secretion system machineries

13 Dec 2025
Job Information

Organisation/Company

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)

Research Field

Biological sciences » Biology

Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country

Netherlands

Application Deadline

23 Jan 2026 - 22:59 (UTC)

Type of Contract

Temporary

Job Status

Not Applicable

Hours Per Week

38.0

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

All bacteria depend on extracellular proteins to be able to communicate and interact with their environment. A particular biological challenge is to get these relatively large molecules from the cytosol and across the surrounding multi-layered bacterial cell envelope without compromising its integrity. To achieve protein transport, bacteria have evolved a suite of specialized protein secretion systems, with up to eleven systems discovered so far, across different species.
Mycobacteria, such as the human bacterial pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis, rely on such a system, called type VII secretion system (T7SS), to transport proteins important for their physiology but also virulence. In the mycobacterial inner membrane, T7SSs assemble a large complex, responsible for translocating large, folded protein substrates. We have recently isolated and solved the structure of this fragile inner membrane assembly as a 33 subunit, 2.3 MDa complex with 165 transmembrane domains (Bunduc et al., Nature 593:445-448). Building on this and other novel findings in our group, we aim to understand how this large membrane complex is assembled and uncover the mechanism by which it translocates folded proteins.
The position involves both wet and dry lab experimentation. Using state-of-the-art molecular and biochemical methods, you will isolate these membrane complexes from different genetic backgrounds, characterize their biochemical properties and analyse their molecular structure using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The latest AI tools, such as Alphafold, BindCraft will be integrated to complement the analysis.
The planned starting date for the project is flexible.

Where to apply

Website

https://www.academictransfer.com/en/jobs/357048/phd-candidate-mechanism-and-ass…

Requirements
Specific Requirements

We are looking for a PhD candidate which has:

• MSc-degree in biochemistry, molecular biology or a related discipline. Candidates close to graduating are also encouraged to apply.
• Strong motivation to solve scientific problems and a curiosity driven approach.
• Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, protein science.
• A keen interest in membrane proteins and/or structural biology (cryo-EM). Previous experience in one of these topics is a plus.
• Affinity for both wet and dry lab methodology.
• Proficiency in English.

As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset. We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore, we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

Additional Information
Benefits

A challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So, in return for your efforts, we offer you:

• a salary of € 3.059,00 (PhD) and maximum € 3.881,00 (PhD) gross per month in the fourth year, for a full-time employment.
• an employment contract of initially 1 year. If there is sufficient perspective, this will be extended to a total of 4 years.

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and arrangements. Some examples:

• A collegial atmosphere in a vibrant research group with excellent opportunities for training.
• A full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year. If you choose to work 40 hours, you have 96 extra holiday leave hours on an annual basis. For part-timers, this is calculated pro rata.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• contribution to commuting expenses
• space for personal development
• discount on (and occasionally exclusive access to) theatre performances and courses at the Griffioen Cultural Center

Additional comments

Are you interested in this position and do you believe that your experience will contribute to the further development of our university? In that case, we encourage you to submit your application via the application button until 23/01/2026 and upload your documents including:

• motivation letter
• your CV (including your education history, short summary of Master thesis and other research experience, etc)
• relevant diplomas
• 2 reference contacts

PLEASE DO NOT APPLY THROUGH THE MAIL, only applications through the VU application system will be considered.
Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated.

Website for additional job details

https://www.academictransfer.com/357048/

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Country

Netherlands

City

Amsterdam

Postal Code

1081HZ

Street

De Boelelaan 1108

Geofield

Contact

City

Amsterdam

Website

http://www.vu.nl/

Street

De Boelelaan 1105

Postal Code

1081 HV

STATUS: EXPIRED

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