Study in the Netherlands | University of Amsterdam PhD Scholarship 2026
Are you an enthusiastic MSc graduate with a passion for exploring the cutting-edge realms of molecular modeling, machine learning, and drug development? If so, the University of Amsterdam (UvA) presents an extraordinary opportunity for you to dive into groundbreaking research. The UvA, under the expert guidance of Dr. Bernd Ensing and his renowned AI for Chemistry team, invites applications for an esteemed PhD Scholarship in Machine Learning and Molecular Modeling specifically tailored for Drug Design.
This unique research position is part of the Vascular Immunology Consortium, a pioneering initiative that seamlessly integrates life sciences and medicine. The consortium offers an exciting collaborative environment and features three interdisciplinary PhD positions that will allow you to engage with leading experts in the field. You will have the chance to contribute to innovative research that strives to advance our understanding of drug design and its applications in fighting vascular-related diseases.
If you are ready to embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey at the nexus of technology and healthcare, this opportunity at UvA could be your next big step in making a significant impact in the world of biomedical research.
Funding Package: Scholarship Benefits
- Monthly Salary: €3,059 in the initial year, increasing to €3,881 by the fourth year (Scale P, full-time 38 hours/week)
- Contract Length: 4 years (initial term of 18 months with the possibility of extension based on performance)
- Festive Reward: 8%
- Year-End Incentive: 8.3%
- Compensated Time Off: 232 hours of vacation annually, along with paid leave for parents and partners.
- Pension: Substantial ABP retirement contribution
- Relocation Assistance: Childcare, education, insurance, and spouse job support through IDCN network.
- Professional Growth: Doctorate programs, interpersonal skills workshops, and Dutch language lessons
- Workspace: Situated at Science Park Amsterdam within the Computational Chemistry Group, Van ‘t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS).
Research Focus
The study will focus on creating geometric learning, generative AI, and reinforcement learning methods to produce and enhance drug candidates. You will be tasked with:
- Develop graph neural networks for predicting structure properties.
- Employ diffusion models to create novel drug molecules.
- Utilize simulations to enhance molecules for ideal protein-binding.
- Collaborate closely with the AI4Science Laboratory, HIMS, and experimental collaborators within the faculties of Life Sciences and Medicine.
Eligibility Requirements
- Possess a recent Master’s degree in AI (emphasizing natural sciences) OR MSc in Chemistry, Physics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Chemical Engineering along with ML experience
- Preference will be given to those with experience in geometric ML, biomolecular simulations, or molecular modeling.
- Proficient programming abilities and an outstanding grasp of English.
- Eager, self-driven, and prepared to work together in a multidisciplinary setting.
Required Documents
Candidates should provide:
- A letter of motivation
- Comprehensive CV (including activity months)
- Purpose statement
- Publication list (if available)
- Contact information for two (02) referees
Combine all documents (excluding the CV) into one PDF file. Submit your application via the official UvA recruitment site at this link.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the University of Amsterdam PhD Scholarship in Machine Learning and Molecular Modelling of Drug Design is August 23, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in August and September 2025, with the project starting between September 2025 and February 2026.
RECOMMENDED
- Firstly, Study in UK | University of Cambridge Research Fellowships 2026
- Secondly, Study in Germany | Heidelberg University Scholarships 2025-2026
- Thirdly, Study in Sweden | Dalarna University Scholarships 2026
- Then, Study in Canada | Killam Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2025
- Also, Netherlands Fully Funded NL Scholarship 2026
- Moreover, France Eiffel Excellence Scholarship for October 2026
- Furthermore, Taylor University Undergraduate Scholarship 2025
- Finally, Tokyo City University Fully-funded Scholarship 2026
