The Bioprocess Engineering research group aims to develop novel concepts for compact, clean and efficient biotechnological manufacturing processes, starting from the fundamental and quantitative knowledge of biomolecular mechanisms, and integrating advanced technological, theoretical and experimental methods. Three directions can be distinguished: high-throughput measurement and modelling of biomolecular properties (1), equipment development (2), and bioprocess integration (3), which are applied to biopharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, bio-based chemicals, and bio-energy.

Continuous biomanufacturing is one of the grand challenges of Europe’s bio-industry. It offers a significant opportunity to boost productivity, improve competitiveness and to reduce the environmental footprint. Current progress is impaired by shortage of trained engineers and scientists, who can design and control continuous bio manufacturing processes. This Innovative Training Network (H2020-MSCA ITN), named CODOBIO, will focus on addressing the critical gaps in research training to enable advances in continuous downstream processing. An expert consortium of industry partners, universities, a research organization, a regulatory institution and a business consultancy has developed a research and training program to address the most urgent topics in continuous downstream processing. These are: (1) process control and modelling (including economic modelling), (2) miniaturization, scale-up and scale-down of unit operations and (3) process design and development of integrated continuous downstream processes.

At the Delft University of Technology we are looking to find Early Stage Researchers (ESR) for two PhD positions, one in the area of High Throughput Biopharmaceutical Process Development (HTPD) using robotics and one in the area of miniaturization and micro fluidic chip technologies as next generation process development tools. We are looking for candidates with a background in (bio) chemical engineering with a focus on biopharmaceutical process development.

For this ITN the mobility rule applies: the ESR has not been more than 12 months in the Netherlands in the past 3 years. The ideal candidate has:

• an MS in (bio)chemical engineering, or an equivalent program
• proficiency in English
• affinity with research at the interface of academia and industry.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Applied Sciences

The Faculty of Applied Sciences is the largest faculty of TU Delft, with around 550 scientists, a support staff of 250 and 1,800 students. The faculty conducts fundamental, application-oriented research and offers scientific education at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels. The faculty is active in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Applied Physics.

The position is in the Department of Biotechnology (www.bt.tudelft.nl), which engages in internationally-leading education programmes, and which offers a stimulating environment in the biosciences, combining fundamental research, engineering, and design, all directed towards biotechnological process innovations. The Department covers the areas of biocatalysis, bioprocess engineering, cell systems engineering, environmental biotechnology, industrial microbiology, and biotechnology and society. The Department shares a state-of-the-art building, which the Bionanoscience and Chemical Engineering departments. Working in such close proximity facilitates inter-departmental collaborations on multidisciplinary projects.    

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences