Principal Investigator Computational Immunology

We offer a Principal Investigator position where you will lead your innovative, technology-focused research line, expand the department's computational core, and drive large-scale, data-driven research projects.

Tasks

We are seeking an experienced computational immunologist who can solve complex problems in the field of immunology using innovative computational methods. We expect the candidate to develop and maintain an independent research line within the Center for Translational Immunology (CTI), which complements the expertise we already have. Your role will be crucial for expanding the department's computational expertise and advancing large-scale, data-driven research projects, in a collaborative environment that fosters team science. We particularly value candidates who can collaborate effectively within diverse partnerships in the CTI and beyond. You will also contribute to the education and mentorship of students and researchers at various levels.

About the Center for Translational Immunology

The position is within the Computational Immunology Core (CIC) of the Center for Translational Immunology (CTI) at UMC Utrecht, the Netherlands. The CTI combines top expertise in immunology in a single department and conducts all research on immunological diseases in the UMC Utrecht. The CTI harbors over 200 researchers in 19 research groups supported by 6 core-facilities, including the CIC.

The CIC brings together all researchers performing computational work at the CTI, and provides a stimulating environment for fundamental, translational and clinical immunology. Our mission is to impact people’s lives by understanding the basis of life-long immune health, classifying and monitoring inflammatory diseases and identifying their treatable traits. We closely link education, research, diagnostics and care, and train PhD students and professionals to obtain a broad career perspective.

The CTI is part of the research theme “Infection and Immunity”, one of the six strategic research themes of the UMC Utrecht. UMC Utrecht is one of the largest medical centers in The Netherlands and is uniquely situated at the Utrecht Science Park with ample opportunities for local collaborations with e.g. The Hubrecht Institute, the science and veterinary faculties of Utrecht University, the national pediatric oncology hospital (Princess Maxima Centre) and various biotech companies. Our computational research is closely linked to the 5 Health AI labs at UMC Utrecht and to the campus-wide Utrecht Bioinformatics Center.

Requirements

• You have a PhD in (1) computational biology, bioinformatics or biostatistics with experience in the field of immunology, or (2) a PhD in immunology with demonstratable experience and advanced knowledge of computational biology.
• You have experience with data-intensive technologies, such as the analysis of spectral flow cytometry, imaging, single-cell transcriptomics, or spatial tissue profiling data, and are keen to develop new methods, for example using machine learning.
• You have a proven track record of independent research funding and high quality publications.
• You have at least 5 years of post-PhD work experience as a scientist in academia or industry.
• You have experience in supervising PhD students or postdocs.
• You are fluent in English, have affinity with teaching and have effective communication skills.
• You have a strong drive for innovation and collaboration, and eagerness to learn new techniques.

Benefits

• A salary between € 5.847,- and € 7.424,- gross per month (salary scale 12), based on full-time employment (36 hours).
• Year-end bonus of 8.3% and holiday allowance of 8%.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 70% of the monthly contribution.
• 100% public transport reimbursement. Are you coming on foot, by bike or by car? You will then receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to a max. Of 40 km one way).
• Possibilities to develop yourself personally and professionally.
• The option to select additional employment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such as purchasing a bicycle and memberships.

Candidates should send a motivation letter and CV, including at least two references and an indication of their availability for this job before April 3, 2026. Selected candidates will be invited for an online interview, which may be followed by an interview in person in Utrecht.