Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor Job in Plant Molecular and Cell Biology at Leiden University, The Netherlands
Leiden University is seeking applications for an Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Full Professor position in Plant Molecular and Cell Biology. This full-time academic appointment is based at the Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL), part of the Faculty of Science. The role offers an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious plant scientist to establish or expand an internationally recognized research program while contributing to teaching and leadership in one of Europe’s most dynamic plant science environments. Applications are open until 7 June 2026.
This faculty role combines several features that make it highly competitive internationally: Open rank appointment (Assistant to Full Professor) Opportunity to lead an independent research group Access to a world-class plant science ecosystem Strong grant and infrastructure support Located in one of Europe’s leading bioscience parks Attractive Dutch academic salary and benefits Excellent quality of life in the Netherlands
The Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor position in Plant Molecular and Cell Biology at Leiden University is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of plant science research and education. Whether you are an emerging principal investigator or an established academic leader, this role offers the institutional support, collaborative environment, and scientific freedom needed to build a high-impact research program in one of Europe’s leading biological research centers.
Position Overview
The successful candidate will join the Plant Sciences Cluster at IBL and contribute to a broad research ecosystem spanning:
- Plant molecular biology
- Plant cell biology
- Plant physiology
- Biochemistry
- Ecology
- Plant anatomy
- Biodiversity research
Depending on experience and career stage, the appointment may be made at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor level.
Opportunity to Build a Leading Research Program
This position is designed for researchers with a clear scientific vision and the ability to develop an independent research line with both scientific and societal impact.
As a faculty member, you will:
- Lead your own research group
- Publish in high-impact journals
- Compete successfully for national and international grants
- Collaborate with academic and industry partners
- Strengthen the international visibility of the Plant Sciences Cluster
Leiden University values both curiosity-driven basic research and interdisciplinary work with practical relevance for agriculture, biotechnology, biodiversity, and sustainability.
Teaching Responsibilities
The appointed professor will play an active role in education across Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
Responsibilities include:
- Teaching plant molecular and cell biology courses
- Supervising undergraduate and graduate research projects
- Mentoring PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers
- Contributing to curriculum development
Candidates should have a clear and thoughtful vision for teaching in plant biology.
About the Institute of Biology Leiden
The Institute of Biology Leiden conducts research under the guiding principle Harnessing Biodiversity for Health.
Research is organized into four major themes:
- Bioactive Molecules
- Host–Microbe Interactions
- Development and Disease
- Evolution and Biodiversity
The institute is located in the Leiden Bio Science Park and works closely with partners such as:
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center
- Leiden University Medical Center
Why Join Leiden University?
Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and a globally respected research institution.
Its Faculty of Science offers:
- More than 2,700 staff members
- Over 6,000 students
- Strong interdisciplinary collaboration
- State-of-the-art research facilities
- A supportive and inclusive academic culture
The university combines academic excellence with a commitment to diversity, sustainability, and societal impact.
Candidate Profile
The position is open to candidates with a strong track record in plant molecular and cell biology.
Essential Qualifications
- PhD in plant molecular biology, cell biology, or a related field
- Excellent publication record
- Independent research vision with demonstrated impact
- Success in securing external funding
- Commitment to teaching and mentorship
- Ability to collaborate across disciplines
Additional Qualifications for Senior Levels
- Experience supervising PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers
- Academic leadership and management experience
- Strong record of team building
Teaching and Language Requirements
- University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) or willingness to obtain it
- Good command of Dutch or willingness to learn
- English proficiency at minimum C1 level
Salary and Employment Conditions
The appointment begins with a one-year full-time contract (38 hours per week), with the possibility of conversion to a permanent position. Gross Monthly Salary: Academic Rank Salary Range Assistant Professor €4,728+ Associate Professor Based on experience Full Professor Up to €10,441.
Additional Benefits
- 8% holiday allowance
- 8.3% end-of-year bonus
- Pension scheme
- Training and career development
- Sabbatical opportunities
- Flexible employment conditions
- Potential Dutch 30% tax ruling for eligible international hires
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Leiden University strongly encourages applications from members of underrepresented groups. The university aims to create an open academic community where all staff and students feel respected and supported. This opportunity is ideal for researchers working in areas such as:
- Sustainable agriculture
- Plant signaling
- Plant development
- Cell biology
- Plant stress responses
- Plant–microbe interactions
- Molecular genetics
- Synthetic biology
Application Deadline
7 June 2026
Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Required Application Materials
Applicants must submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Contact details for three referees
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Contact Information
- Scientific Inquiries: Martijn Bezemer: Email: t.m.bezemer@biology.leidenuniv.nl
- HR Questions: HR Team, Institute of Biology Leiden, Email: HR@biology.leidenuniv.nl
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a tenure-track or permanent role?
The position starts with a one-year contract and may lead to a fixed-term or permanent appointment depending on performance and rank.
Can early-career researchers apply?
Yes. The vacancy is open at Assistant Professor level, making it suitable for emerging group leaders with a strong postdoctoral record.
Is teaching experience required?
A clear teaching vision is essential. Formal teaching qualifications can be obtained after appointment if needed.
Do I need to speak Dutch?
Not necessarily. Candidates should either have a good command of Dutch or be willing to learn it.
What is the salary range?
The gross monthly salary ranges from €4,728 to €10,441 depending on academic rank and experience.
Is the position open to international applicants?
Yes. Leiden University welcomes applications from researchers worldwide.
What facilities are available?
The position offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborative opportunities within the Leiden Bio Science Park.
What documents are required?
You must submit a CV, motivation letter, and contact information for three referees.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 7 June 2026.
Where is Leiden University located?
The university is located in Leiden, the Netherlands, near major European research and innovation centers.
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