Fully Funded PhD Candidate in Fungal Biology at Leiden University, Netherlands
Leiden University is inviting applications for an exciting fully funded PhD position in Fungal Biology under the National Growth Fund Program Cellular Agriculture (CAN). This interdisciplinary research project focuses on developing a non-model filamentous fungus as a next-generation production platform for animal proteins derived from grass-based feedstocks.
The project sits at the cutting edge of synthetic biology, microbial genetics, cellular agriculture, industrial biotechnology, and sustainable food production. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading academic institutions and innovative biotechnology companies working to transform the future of food.
About the Cellular Agriculture Program (CAN)
Cellular agriculture is rapidly emerging as one of the most important fields in biotechnology and sustainable food systems. The National Growth Fund Program Cellular Agriculture (CAN) aims to accelerate the development of innovative technologies capable of producing high-quality proteins with significantly lower environmental impact than conventional livestock production.
This PhD project contributes directly to that mission by engineering filamentous fungi capable of producing animal proteins suitable for food applications. The position represents a unique opportunity to work on a project with direct scientific, industrial, and societal relevance.
Research Project Overview
The primary objective of this doctoral project is to develop a non-model filamentous fungus into an efficient host organism for the production of animal proteins. Researchers will investigate how advanced genetic engineering and synthetic biology approaches can improve fungal strains and optimize protein expression systems. The project covers the entire innovation pipeline, including:
- Genetic strain design
- Synthetic biology tool development
- Heterologous protein production
- Fermentation optimization
- Process integration
- Food application validation
This end-to-end approach provides valuable exposure to both fundamental and applied biotechnology research.
International and Industrial Collaboration
A major strength of this PhD opportunity is its extensive collaboration network. The project brings together expertise from:
Academic Partners
- Leiden University
- HAN BioCentre (Nijmegen)
- Avans University of Applied Sciences (Breda)
Industrial Partners
- The Protein Express
- Those Vegan Cowboys
Together, the consortium covers every stage of the production process, from strain engineering to industrial implementation. PhD candidates will actively collaborate with scientists, engineers, and industry experts throughout the project.
Main Research Responsibilities
The selected candidate will play a central role within the consortium and contribute to multiple aspects of fungal biotechnology research.
Building a Genetic Toolbox for Non-Model Fungi
One of the first objectives will be the establishment of advanced genetic tools that enable synthetic biology applications in filamentous fungi. Research activities may include:
- Genome engineering
- Vector development
- Gene editing strategies
- Promoter characterization
- Functional genomics
These tools will provide the foundation for future strain development efforts.
Developing High-Performance Protein Expression Systems
The project seeks to create robust systems capable of expressing valuable heterologous proteins. Key tasks include:
- Construct design
- Gene expression optimization
- Protein secretion analysis
- Host strain engineering
- Molecular pathway optimization
The resulting platform could support scalable protein production for food applications.
Improving Protein Production Efficiency
A major focus of the research will be increasing production yields. The candidate will investigate:
- Transcriptional activators
- Regulatory gene networks
- Protein stability mechanisms
- Cellular metabolism
- Gene expression control systems
These studies will generate insights that improve overall production performance.
Medium Optimization and Strain Engineering
The project also involves developing strategies to maximize milk protein production through:
- Fermentation medium optimization
- Metabolic engineering
- Transcriptomic analysis
- Protein stability assessment
- Rational strain improvement
This work will directly contribute to industrial process development.
Scientific Communication and Outreach
In addition to laboratory research, the PhD candidate will actively contribute to:
- Scientific publications
- Conference presentations
- Consortium meetings
- Public engagement activities
- Knowledge dissemination
Strong communication skills are therefore highly valued.
Teaching and Student Supervision
The successful candidate will also gain academic teaching experience through:
- Supervising Bachelor students
- Supporting Master’s projects
- Participating in educational activities
These experiences provide valuable preparation for future academic careers.
Research Environment at Leiden University
The position is based within the Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL), one of the Netherlands’ leading biological research institutes. IBL operates under the guiding principle: “Harnessing Biodiversity for Health.” Researchers at the institute work on both curiosity-driven fundamental science and solutions-oriented research addressing major global challenges. Current research themes include:
- Bioactive Molecules
- Host-Microbe Interactions
- Development and Disease
- Evolution and Biodiversity
The institute offers an internationally oriented and highly collaborative research environment.
Why Study at Leiden University?
Founded in 1575, Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and consistently ranks among Europe’s top research institutions. Benefits of studying at Leiden include:
- World-class research facilities
- Strong international reputation
- Access to Leiden Bio Science Park
- Interdisciplinary collaborations
- Extensive professional development opportunities
- Diverse international community
The Faculty of Science alone hosts nearly 2,800 staff members and more than 6,000 students.
Required Qualifications
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field. Preferred backgrounds include:
- Fungal Biology
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Genetics
- Synthetic Biology
- Microbial Biotechnology
- Related Life Sciences Disciplines
Candidates with outstanding academic records will be particularly competitive.
Essential Skills and Experience
Strong applicants should demonstrate expertise in several of the following areas:
Molecular Genetics
- Microbial genetics
- Genetic engineering
- Gene expression analysis
- Molecular cloning
Fungal Biology
- Filamentous fungi research
- Fungal physiology
- Industrial microbiology
Research Skills
- Scientific writing
- Experimental design
- Data analysis
- Critical thinking
Professional Skills
- Project management
- Organization
- Teamwork
- Scientific communication
Experience working with industrial partners is considered a significant advantage.
Salary and Employment Benefits
Leiden University offers a highly competitive doctoral employment package under the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Universities.
PhD Salary Progression
| Year | Gross Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | €2,901 |
| Year 4 | €3,707 |
The salary increases annually based on satisfactory progress.
Additional Benefits
PhD candidates receive:
- 8% holiday allowance
- 8.3% end-of-year bonus
- Excellent pension scheme
- Professional training programs
- Career development support
- Sabbatical opportunities
- Flexible employment conditions
- Dual-career support for international partners
- Potential tax benefits for international researchers
These benefits make Dutch PhD positions among the most attractive doctoral opportunities globally.
Diversity and Inclusion
Leiden University is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming academic environment. The university encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and actively promotes diversity, equality, and inclusion throughout its academic community. Researchers are supported in achieving their full academic potential regardless of nationality, gender, ethnicity, disability status, religion, or personal background.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit the following documents:
- Motivation Letter (maximum 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Relevant Academic Certificates
- Contact Information for Two Referees
- Applications must be submitted through APPLY NOW
- Applications submitted after June 30, 2026 will not be considered.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Position | PhD Candidate in Fungal Biology |
| University | Leiden University |
| Program | Cellular Agriculture (CAN) |
| Location | Leiden, Netherlands |
| Employment Type | Full-Time PhD Position |
| Weekly Hours | 38 Hours |
| Starting Salary | €2,901 per Month |
| Final-Year Salary | €3,707 per Month |
| Application Deadline | June 30, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a fully funded PhD position?
Yes. The position is a paid doctoral appointment with a full salary, benefits package, pension contributions, and professional development opportunities.
What is the main research focus?
The project focuses on engineering filamentous fungi to produce animal proteins for sustainable food applications through synthetic biology and biotechnology approaches.
What is cellular agriculture?
Cellular agriculture uses biotechnology, fermentation, and cell-based production methods to create food ingredients without conventional animal farming.
Are industrial collaborations involved?
Yes. The project includes collaboration with biotechnology companies such as The Protein Express and Those Vegan Cowboys.
Is previous experience with fungi required?
A strong background in fungal biology or microbial genetics is preferred and will significantly strengthen an application.
Will there be opportunities for publication?
Yes. Publishing scientific research papers and presenting findings at conferences are important components of the PhD project.
Is teaching experience part of the position?
Yes. The successful candidate may supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students and participate in teaching-related activities.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Leiden University welcomes international applicants and provides support programs for researchers relocating from abroad.
What career paths can this PhD lead to?
Graduates may pursue careers in biotechnology, synthetic biology, industrial microbiology, food innovation, pharmaceutical research, academic science, fermentation technology, and sustainable protein production industries.
Why is this PhD highly attractive?
The combination of synthetic biology, fungal biotechnology, industrial collaboration, sustainable food innovation, competitive funding, and excellent research infrastructure makes this one of the strongest biotechnology PhD opportunities currently available in Europe
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