A highly competitive postdoctoral opportunity is now open at Utrecht University for researchers interested in gene regulatory networks, plant stress biology, and advanced genomics. This role is part of an international collaboration aiming to decode how plants regulate gene expression across different cell types.

This position is particularly valuable for researchers aiming to advance in: Systems biology and computational genomics. Plant molecular biology and biotechnology. Academic research leadership. Crop science and sustainable agriculture. The combination of experimental validation and computational modeling provides a strong foundation for both academic and industry careers.

Why This Postdoc Opportunity Matters

Understanding how plants control gene expression in specific tissues is essential for improving crop resilience under environmental stress. This position focuses on uncovering the regulatory mechanisms behind suberin biosynthesis, a key process that protects plant roots from stressors such as salinity and drought.

This research sits at the intersection of:

• Systems biology
• Transcriptomics and single-cell genomics
• Molecular plant biology
• Computational network inference

The MYBstery Project: Research Overview

This postdoc is embedded in the MYBstery project, a collaborative initiative between Utrecht University and the University of Freiburg.

Core Objective

To understand how MYB transcription factors regulate suberin deposition across different root cell types and developmental stages.

Scientific Focus

• Transcriptional regulation of suberin (Utrecht University)
• Post-translational regulation (University of Freiburg)
• Integration of multi-omics datasets
• Development of innovative tools such as TurboCas

The project aims to generate insights that could contribute to climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable crop development.

Your Role and Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will take a leading role in both experimental and computational aspects of the project.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate bulk and single-cell transcriptomics data from chickpea roots
• Integrate datasets to infer spatiotemporal gene regulatory networks
• Experimentally validate gene interactions using molecular assays
• Develop and optimize TurboCas methodology for plant systems
• Conduct transgenic experiments in Arabidopsis and chickpea
• Collaborate with international partners and supervise students
• Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at conferences

You will also participate in short research visits to Germany for collaborative experiments and training.

Candidate Profile

Required Qualifications

• PhD in plant biology, bioinformatics, genetics, or related field
• Strong background in bioinformatics and transcriptomic analysis
• Experience with molecular biology or biochemical techniques
• Ability to design and troubleshoot experimental workflows
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Comfortable working independently and in teams
• Interested in interdisciplinary research
• Motivated to contribute to both method development and biological discovery

Salary and Employment Conditions

This position offers competitive compensation and long-term research stability:

• Salary range: €3,546 – €5,538/month (based on experience)
• Initial contract: 1 year
• Extension: up to 3 years total upon positive evaluation
• 8% holiday allowance
• 8.3% year-end bonus
• Pension scheme and parental leave options

Research Environment

You will join the Experimental & Computational Plant Development group at Utrecht University, within a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary setting.

What You Can Expect

• Access to advanced genomics and computational infrastructure
• Collaboration with leading European research groups
• Opportunities for international networking and conferences
• Mentorship and supervision experience

The Department of Biology is part of a broader Faculty of Science that promotes cross-disciplinary research and innovation.

Application Process

To apply, prepare the following documents:

• Motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
• CV (maximum 2 pages) including references
• Proof of PhD completion (or defense confirmation)
• Application Deadline 23 April 2026
• Applications must be submitted via APPLY NOW

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is this postdoc fully funded?

Yes, the position is fully funded with a competitive salary and benefits under Dutch academic employment standards.

2. Do I need experience with single-cell genomics?

It is beneficial but not mandatory. Strong transcriptomics experience is essential.

3. What is TurboCas?

TurboCas is an emerging experimental method used to identify gene regulatory interactions. You will help develop and apply it in plant systems.

4. Will I need to travel during the project?

Yes, short research visits to the University of Freiburg are part of the collaboration.

5. Is prior experience with Arabidopsis required?

It is advantageous but not strictly required if you have strong molecular biology skills.

6. Are international applicants eligible?

Yes, candidates from all countries are encouraged to apply.

7. What programming skills are expected?

Experience with R, Python, or similar tools for transcriptomic analysis is highly desirable.

8. What are the long-term career prospects?

This role prepares you for academic faculty positions, research leadership roles, or advanced industry positions in biotech and genomics.