We have an open PhD position (fully funded, four years) in correlative light-electron microscopy at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in collaboration with the Center for Multiscale Electron Microscopy and the Nanoscopy for Nanomedicine group. This position is funded by the Dutch Research Council Gravitation Program Interactive Polymer Materials grant, a large consortium aiming to design the next generation of polymeric materials.  

Correlative imaging is an innovative imaging method that combines multiple imaging modalities and its potential for (bio)materials imaging is not yet harvested. You will focus on establishing correlative light-electron microscopy for polymer materials at TU/e and use it to study a variety of materials available in the consortium. This will include: i) correlating electron microscopy with fluorescence and super resolution microscopy; ii) correlating fluorescence microscopy and high-resolution structures by electron microscopy for cryogenic samples and iii) study dynamic materials combining fluorescence microscopy and liquid cell EM.

The goal of the project is to develop of a toolbox of correlative approaches that exploit the strengths of each individual technique, ultimately leading to a comprehensive '5D' picture (in three spatial dimensions (x, y, z), in time (t) and in function) of interactive and dynamic polymer materials through time-resolved, multiscale in-situ analysis.

This position will be embedded within the Laboratory of Physical Chemistry at the Department of Chemical Engineering & Chemistry of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) and supervised by dr. Heiner Friedrich (heading the Center for Multiscale Electron Microscopy) and dr. Lorenzo Albertazzi (Nanoscopy for Nanomedicine group, Biomedical Engineering department). The groups are also closely connected to the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems.

The Laboratory of Physical Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology

The research of the Laboratory of Physical Chemistry group, led by prof. Remco Tuinier, is positioned at the intersection of theoretical and experimental physical chemistry and the fields of polymer and colloid science. We focus on gaining a fundamental understanding of the physical and chemical properties and processes relevant to the behaviour of polymers, colloids, and their mixtures in bulk and at interfaces. We study the mentioned physical-chemical properties and processes by combining experiments [synthesis & assembly of polymers and (bioinspired) colloids, (cryo, in situ, electron, light) microscopy, (X-ray, neutron, light) scattering, interfacial methods, rheology, (3D) printing], theory (mean-field computations on bulk phase behaviour and interfacial properties, colloidal interactions) and computer simulations. Of particular interest are designing molecules, particles, and interfaces to perform a specific function, and to develop novel technologies for producing ingredients and making products and related processes sustainable.

This PhD thesis researcher position is part of the Center for Multiscale Electron Microscopy, the Nanoscopy for Nanomedicine group and the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems with full access to all available infrastructure including TEM (Titan Themis), Cryo-TEM (Glacios), Confocal microscopy (Nikon, Leica), STED and SMLM super-resolution microscopy (Nikon, ONI, Aberrior) setups.

TU/e offers academic education that is driven by fundamental and applied research. We combine scientific curiosity with a hands-on mentality. Our educational philosophy is based on personal attention and room for individual ambitions and talents. Our research meets the highest international standards of quality. We push the limits of science, which puts us at the forefront of rapidly emerging areas of research.

• A MSc degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Applied Physics, or related disciplines.
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work in a team and collaborate with research partners.
• Prior experience with electron and/or fluorescence microscopy on soft matter related to polymers and/or colloids is an asset.

You are:

• A talented, motivated, and enthusiastic researcher. Analytical skills, initiative and creativity are valuable properties.
• A naturally curious person who is eager to learn more and has a strong interest in research.
• Excellent in written and oral communication in English.
• A social person, have a good team spirit and like to work in an internationally oriented environment.

International and female candidates are especially encouraged to apply: we think our research group benefits from a diverse group of talented people. 

Interviews, a scientific presentation, and a writing assignment are part of the selection procedure.

• A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university with the possibility to present your work at international conferences. The TU/e is located in one of the smartest regions of the world and part of the European technology hotspot 'Brainport Eindhoven'; well-known because of many high-tech industries and start-ups. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. A place to be for talented scientists! In addition, we offer you:
• A full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months.
• To develop your teaching skills, you will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale PhD (min. € 2.541 max. € 3.247). Additionally, an annual holiday allowance of 8% of the yearly salary, plus a year-end allowance of 8.3% of the annual salary.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• Should you come from abroad and comply with certain conditions, you can make use of the so-called '30% facility', which permits you not to pay tax on 30% of your salary.
• A broad package of fringe benefits, including an excellent technical infrastructure, moving expenses, and savings schemes.
• Family-friendly initiatives are in place, such as an international spouse program, and excellent on-campus children day care and sports facilities.
• In our interactions, we value collegiality, respect, and regard for others. We do not tolerate intimidation, aggression and violence, bullying, or unjust discrimination.