Group Leader​/Scientific Researcher in Mitochondrial Biology

Overview

You will develop an independent and innovative research program to explore new directions in mitochondrial biology and neural metabolism to investigate how genetic variation contributes to brain disease. We are seeking talented metabolism scientists with experience in neuroscience or the ambition to apply their expertise in human neuroscience and genetic brain disorders. Applicants are expected to be ready to develop an independent and innovative research program using cell and/or rodent models to explore new directions in mitochondrial biology.

You will study how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to brain disease, with a particular focus on Friedreich’s Ataxia but also extending to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or other brain diseases.

• Develop an innovative, independent research program, connecting to and augmenting existing research in the center, and resulting in scientific publications in the best, peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to drug development efforts within the Amsterdam UMC CANDIDATE Neuro center.
• Support the research program with external funding.
• Supervise graduate students.
• Contribute to undergraduate teaching at bachelor and master level.

• Completed a PhD in Molecular/cellular (Neuro‑)Biology, Biochemistry or a related field.
• At least three years of postdoctoral research experience outside the institute where the PhD was obtained.
• A strong publication record.
• Acquired external research funding.
• University Teaching Qualification (UTQ/BKO) or willingness to obtain such a qualification.
• Master the English language at CEFR C1/C2 level.
• Will be employed by Amsterdam UMC Research BV.

• Fully funded position as scientific researcher for an initial period of 2 years, supported by available project funding.
• Opportunity to contribute to ongoing projects, secure external funding, and grow within the institution with strong potential for a longer‑term appointment and future tenure.
• Support for a fully funded PhD student supervised by the new group leader.
• Classification in salary scale 11: €4.818 to €6.594 gross for full-time employment (depending on experience).
• 8.3% end‑of‑year bonus in addition to a good basic salary.
• Salary increase of 3.5% in accordance with the collective labor agreement (CAO UMC) as of 1 July 2026.
• Holiday hours: 194.4 per year for full-time and a possibility to save additional hours.
• 100% reimbursement for public transport travel costs. If you travel by foot, bicycle, or car, a mileage allowance of €0.21 per km applies (up to a maximum of 40 km one way by car).
• Good bike scheme for those who prefer walking or cycling.
• Pension accrual with BeFrank, a modern, comprehensible and fairly priced pension.
• Employment location:
  Department of Neurology, Alzheimer Center Amsterdam; embedded within the Department of Functional Genomics at the center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research. Dedicated support of lab technicians and free access to all equipment within the center.

If you have any questions regarding this vacancy, you may contact dr. van der Kant at r.h.n.vanderkant.