Looking for a job

Christopher Liechti

@christopherliechti

Toxicology PhD candidate at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam investigating how endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect brain development in zebrafish.

United Kingdom

Message

What I'm looking for

I’m seeking work investigating the effects of chemical pollution on the environment and the organisms within it. I want to help elucidate the effects of chemicals, including those that may emerge in later generations, so their adverse impacts can be mitigated and ecosystems protected.

At Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, I investigate how endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect brain development and early biomarkers of sexual differentiation in zebrafish embryos. My work is part of the MERLON project, which assesses new approach methodologies for detecting later-life adverse outcomes.

I conduct chemical exposure experiments and use DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, and gene-expression analysis to investigate biological responses. I also analyze and interpret experimental data, troubleshoot protocols, and evaluate toxicological responses across conditions.

For my MSc research at the University of Gothenburg, I studied the behavioural toxicity of conventional, biobased, and marine-recycled polymers in European perch and Netted Dog Whelk. I used bioassays and statistical analysis to examine organismal responses and effects associated with leachates, and presented findings at SETAC Dublin in 2023.

Earlier, as a Research Assistant at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, I investigated antidepressant effects on snail behaviour, sperm production, and egg production. I’m interested in understanding how chemical pollution can affect organisms across generations and in contributing to research that helps mitigate its effects on ecosystems.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

PhD Candidate in Toxicology

Current

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Nov 2024 - Present (1 year 11 months)

Investigating effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on brain development and early biomarkers of sexual differentiation using zebrafish embryos. Directing exposure experiments, applying molecular techniques, and analyzing toxicological responses.

Toxicology Zebrafish Embryo Studies DNA RNA Extraction qPCR Gene Expression Analysis Experimental Design Data Analysis Troubleshooting

MSc Research

University of Gothenburg

Sep 2021 - Jul 2023 (1 year 10 months)

Studied behavioural toxicity of conventional versus biobased and marine-recycled polymers in European perch and Netted Dog Whelk using bioassays and statistical analysis. Investigated organismal responses to polymer exposure and leachates, and presented findings at SETAC Dublin 2023.

Behavioural Toxicology Bioassay Statistical Analysis Exposure Design European Perch Netted Dog Whelk Scientific Communications

Research Assistant

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

May 2021 - Sep 2021 (4 months)

Investigated antidepressant effects on snail behaviour, sperm production, and egg production. Designed and conducted experiments, analysed data, and prepared scientific reports within a multidisciplinary research team.

Experimental Design Behavioral Assays Data Analysis Scientific Reporting Interdisciplinary Research

Research Intern

Chinese Academy of Sciences

Sep 2017 - Dec 2017 (3 months)

Performed DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis; conducted mouse tissue dissections and behavioural experiments. Supported senior researchers with laboratory activities and contributed to experimental work under supervision.

DNA Extraction PCR Gel Electrophoresis Mouse Dissection Behavioural Experiments Laboratory Support

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

PhD Candidate, Toxicology

2024 -

PhD candidate in Toxicology, with research focused on the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on brain development and early biomarkers of sexual differentiation using zebrafish embryos.

University of Gothenburg

Master of Science, Biology

2021 - 2023

MSc in Biology with a specialisation in Physiology and Cell Biology, including a thesis on behavioural toxicity of polymers in European perch and Netted Dog Whelk.