Welcome to Maastricht University! Are you interested in identifying health risks associated with herbal food supplements using data-driven approaches? While often deemed safe due to their natural origin, the actual health effects of these supplements remain unclear. In this PhD project, you will create a testing strategy to detect potential hazards early, contributing to the safer use of herbal supplements.

About the Company

Maastricht University is a vibrant institution that fosters collaboration among 23,300 students and 5,400 employees across various faculties and research institutes. Our commitment to health encompasses all aspects, from molecular research to patient care.

The Role

You will develop and implement a next-generation strategy for assessing the safety of complex herbal preparations. Your main activities will include:

• Reviewing scientific literature, nutrivigilance data, and existing risk assessments to select relevant botanicals and assays.
• Developing and validating an effect-based test battery for hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, genotoxicity, and endocrine activity using well-characterized reference botanicals.
• Utilizing human-relevant in vitro models and bioassays to screen complete herbal preparations.
• Conducting mechanistic studies and targeted chemical analyses (e.g., LC-MS/MS, GC-MS) to identify compounds linked to observed effects.
• Integrating toxicological, chemical-analytical, and nutrivigilance data to relate in vitro findings to plausible human exposure.
• Publishing your findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at scientific meetings.

Requirements

We seek a curious, proactive researcher with strong analytical skills and the ability to troubleshoot laboratory methods. You should be capable of working independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Additionally, you should possess:

• A completed Master of Science (MSc) in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Life Sciences, Toxicology, Chemistry, Food Safety, or a related field.
• Knowledge and experience in toxicology, food safety, and/or risk assessment through academic training.
• Hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture and relevant molecular or biochemical assays, alongside standard chemical analytical techniques such as HPLC and mass spectrometry.
• Practical experience with 2D/3D cell models, genotoxicity testing, or analytical chemistry is advantageous.
• Strong communication skills in English (fluent at C1 level) with a desire to share research findings beyond traditional scholarly activities.

What We Offer

At Maastricht University, you will work in an international, open, and engaged environment. We provide:

• A 12-month contract (1.0 FTE) with the possibility of a 3-year extension based on mutual satisfaction.
• A gross monthly salary between €3,204 and €4,051 (based on full-time employment of 38 hours per week), including an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
• 29 vacation days (based on full-time), four additional days off, and the opportunity to accrue up to 12 extra days through compensation hours.
• Freedom to shape your work independently and develop your ideas within a close-knit community of colleagues.
• Access to a solid pension plan, company fitness schemes, and various university sports facilities.
• An inspiring work environment located in the heart of Europe.

Application Process

Interested candidates should contact Dr. Misha Vrolijk at m.vrolijk@maastrichtuniversity.nl or Dr. Roger Godschalk at r.godschalk@maastrichtuniversity.nl for more information. The deadline for applications is 20 September 2026. To apply, please upload your CV and motivation letter. The selection process will include two interviews, and a presentation or assignment may also be required.

Join us at Maastricht University, where we collaboratively seek solutions to advance the world forward. We look forward to your application!