In an ERC funded project, the Kiers group (Evolutionary Biology, VU University) and the Shimizu group (Systems Biophysics, AMOLF) is accepting applications for a post-doc with exceptional skills in image analysis, microscopy, and/or modeling of fluid dynamics and transport processes.

Our aim is to track and analyze the dynamics of nutrient transport inside complex fungal networks in symbiosis with host plants. These fungi offer a unique opportunity to study complex flow patterns (bi-directional flow within random-graph networks) in a research context firmly embedded within an important biological question. Specifically, we are interested in the factors organizing fluid flow across fungal filament networks, and how information and resources are shared across these integrated networks.

The successful post-doc will further develop our automated imaging system to measure velocities, flow dynamics, and oscillatory patterns of nutrients within hyphal networks. This will allow us to better understand the evolution of microbial trade strategies.

Cross-discipline collaboration
We offer a unique opportunity for a post-doc to contribute to cutting-edge research into the evolution of symbioses by working at the intersection of Evolutionary Biology and Biophysics. Housed primarily at the AMOLF Systems Biology Lab with Professor Shimizu, the successful candidate will develop a suit of tools to understand what drives oscillatory dynamics across fungal networks.  Ultimately, we are interested in understanding whether plant hosts can influence how fungal symbionts distribute and trade their nutrients.

AMOLF is one of the top research laboratories of the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research Institutes (NWO-I), specializing in the physics of complex matter.

We are looking for an early-career scientists with outstanding track records in the fields of biophysics or fluid mechanics. Selection of applicants starts immediately.
• Candidates should hold a Ph.D., with a strong background in experimental physics and/or
   biophysics
• Outstanding publication record
• Excellent ability to communicate in both written and spoken English
• Ability to start within 2 months

Particular preference will be given to candidates with prior experience with image analysis, microbiology and/or modeling fluid dynamics.

The initial appointment will be for a period of 1.5 years, with potential grant opportunities to follow.

Information about our excellent fringe benefits of employment can be found at www.workingatvu.nl and include for example:
• Remuneration of 8,3% end-of-year bonus and 8% holiday allowance;
• Solid pension scheme (ABP);
• A minimum of 29 holiday days in case of full-time employment;
• A wide range of sports facilities, which staff may use at a modest charge.

We offer a competitive salary package in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel, in the position of Researcher in salary scale 10, ranging from a minimum of € 2588,00 gross per month up to a maximum of € 3839,00 gross per month based on fulltime employment.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a leading, innovative and growing university that is at the heart of society and actively contributes to new developments in teaching and research. Our university has ten faculties which span a wide range of disciplines, as well as several institutes, foundations, research centres, and support services. Its campus is located in the fastest-growing economic region in the Netherlands (the Zuidas district of Amsterdam), and provides work for over 4,500 staff and scientific education for more than 23,000 students.

The Department of Ecological Science (DES) answers fundamental ecological and evolutionary questions regarding the relationship between organisms and their environment at the full array of hierarchical levels: from molecular ecology to ecosystem research. The department comprises a dynamic community of researchers and provides an excellent research environment with state-of-the-art facilities and high quality training.