PhD in modeling of cell migration in complex ECMs to decode the risk for young adult skin cancer at Leiden University

We are seeking a PhD student to join a research project in computational science, mathematical or theoretical biology, computational physics, or applied mathematics as part of the EU-funded PhotoMel consortium.

About the role

This PhD project is part of the multidisciplinary EU project PhotoMel (Decoding Early-Life UVA and Skincare Additive Interactions Driving Melanoma Risk and Progression in Young Adults), a collaboration of 7 European universities and partners. The consortium aims to prevent melanoma onset in young adults by investigating how chemical exposures and UVA-induced damage in early childhood—including ECM remodeling and skin cell mutations—shape the melanoma niche.

As an integral member of the PhotoMel community, you will work in an open, diverse, and inspiring environment at the intersection of biology, medicine, and physics. You will participate in EU PhotoMel events, training, and collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and interpret novel two-dimensional multiscale mathematical models of cell migration through complex networks of ECM fibers, in close collaboration with the PhotoMel consortium.
• Further develop and adapt two-dimensional simulation techniques to model the mechanochemical regulation of melanoma cell migration.
• Integrate new techniques into the Tissue Simulation Toolkit or other CPM frameworks such as Morpheus or CompuCell3D.
• Design simulation experiments to reflect and interpret ECM modifications due to UV and skincare additives, using data from the PhotoMel consortium.
• Gain insights into the effects of UV and skincare additives on melanoma progression through simulation experiments, literature study, and collaboration with consortium members.
• Collaborate with a postdoc in the group to extend two-dimensional modeling insights to three dimensions and validate them against experimental data.
• Refine mathematical models in close collaboration with experimental biologists, including colleagues at the Medical University of Vienna who will image melanoma cell migration in ex vivo human skin samples and organotypic models.
• Publish results in scientific literature and write a PhD thesis.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in theoretical biology, applied mathematics, computational/theoretical physics, computer science, or a related discipline.
• Written and oral proficiency in English, with strong scientific writing skills.
• Ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Fluent interdisciplinary communication skills with scientists in cell biology and mathematics.
• Keen interest in the cell and developmental biology of cancer.
• Experience in (numerical) mathematical modeling (e.g., Cellular Potts modeling, particle-based simulations, PDEs, FBA).
• Suitable programming skills in C++ or a related language.

Submission is possible until 14 July 2026.