PhD in PRRSv Transmission & Virulence – Utrecht University

Key details

• Host institution: Utrecht University
• Location: Utrecht University, Domplein 29, Utrecht, Netherlands
• Application deadline: June 14, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

Utrecht University invites applications for a PhD position within the ‘PRIDE’ project, focusing on the virulence and transmission dynamics of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus (PRRSv). PRRSv is a major economic threat to pig farming worldwide due to its impact on animal health and productivity, and its control is complicated by rapid, often undetected spread and continuous genomic evolution. The Dutch pig production sector aims to be PRRSv-free by 2040, and this project will provide essential knowledge and tools to support elimination through the National PRRS Plan.

Your Job

As a PhD candidate, you will investigate how PRRSv spreads between pig farms in the Netherlands and identify which viral lineages are most virulent and why. You will also help develop clear guidance on biosecurity measures for farmers. Your work will involve analyzing genetic sequence data from PRRSv strains detected through the national PRRS surveillance programme, combined with farm-level metadata (including geographic and antibiotic use data), using innovative phylodynamic and epidemiological methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply phylodynamic and epidemiological methods to study PRRSv transmission and virulence.
• Collaborate closely with Royal GD on data analysis and communicate findings with project partners.
• Publish scientific papers and write lay summaries for pig farmers and veterinarians.
• Co-supervise MSc students and contribute to teaching activities as part of your PhD trajectory.

Requirements

• You will be based in the Veterinary Epidemiology group at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University.
• Supervision by Marina Meester, Tijs Tobias, and Gerdien van Schaik (expertise in molecular epidemiology, swine health management, and veterinary epidemiology).
• Enrollment in the Utrecht Graduate School of Life Sciences for training and professional development.
• Opportunities to co-supervise MSc students and contribute to teaching.

Project Context

The PRIDE project (PRRS-vrij: Innovatie voor een Duurzame en Economisch Verantwoorde Varkenshouderij) is conducted in collaboration with CoViVa (Coalitie Vitale Varkenshouderij), Royal GD, Wageningen Social & Economic Research, pharmaceutical companies, and other stakeholders.