The main aim of this project is focused on researching, design, development and application of multimodal sensing and hyphenated microfluidics systems. Here microfluidics embodies besides lab- or Organ-on-the-Chip also novel flow-reactor technologies, designed to allow multi-step enzymatic biocatalysis of novel pharmaceuticals. Newly developed Organ-on-the-Chip technologies are to be applied in studying  material-biology interactions, stable-isotope-labelled metabolism in cells or organoids and biocatalysis studies. The multimodal sensing platform, encompasses the design and development of surface plasmon resonance and mass spectrometry technologies. For the latter, more fundamental studies on MS/MS fragmentation mechanisms and Ion Mobility Spectrometry are planned. During the project, collaborations with researchers within the research schools NUTRIM, CARIM or GROW need to be managed. In addition, collaborations with researchers within MERLN and external industrial partners are likely to occur. From a molecular point of view, molecules like proteins, peptides, lipids, and novel drug like compounds are included. In order to prove the proper design and development of the methodologies, real samples origination of the clinic, like plasma or urine, organic or inorganic biomaterials and lastly small molecular weight pharmaceuticals are to be quantified and identified.

This research is embedded in the M4I Institute and in close collaboration with instrument manufactures, and research department within the area of biochemical and materials sciences. The project is funded by the Maastricht University, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences.

The PhD student has finished a master in Analytical Sciences, Biochemistry or Technical engineering with a fundamental understanding of microfluidics technologies applied in chemical of biological sciences. Moreover, experience in fundamental research and a profound knowledge on SPR and/or Mass Spectrometry is recommended

The PhD student has a clear interest in complex cell and tissue biotechnologies and biochemical catalysis

The PhD student is social competent to work in a multidisciplinary team.

The PhD student has a good set of organizational skills.

The PhD student has the capacity to overview and unravel complex problems/challenges.

The PhD student has a strong interest in fundamental (OA) research

Fixed-term contract: 1 + 3 years.

Temporary employment for four years (1+3 y.), with a yearly evaluation.Your salary would be € 2.222,-- gross per month in the first year up to € 2.840,-- gross per month in the fourth year according to the PhD-student salary scale.

The terms of employment of Maastricht University are set out in the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO). Furthermore, local UM provisions also apply. For more information look at the website http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl > Support > UM employees

http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/

Maastricht University is renowned for its unique, innovative, problem-based learning system, which is characterized by a small-scale and student-oriented approach. Research at UM is characterized by a multidisciplinary and thematic approach, and is concentrated in research institutes and schools. Maastricht University has around 16,500 students and 4,000 employees. Reflecting the university's strong international profile, a fair amount of both students and staff are from abroad. The university hosts 6 faculties: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Faculty of Law, School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience.

http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/

The M4I Institute is a state-of-the art molecular imaging institute. The mission of the institute and collaboration is to perform fundamental, instrumentation and applied studies in molecular imaging as a part of a translational, synergistic, interdisciplinary research program. The institute is embedded in the faculty of health, medicine and life sciences of the UM. The research group is one of the world leaders in high resolution molecular imaging of biological surfaces, and targets the development and application of state-of-the-art mass spectrometry based molecular imaging infrastructure for nanomedicine and biomedical research.The PhD student will be embedded in the M4I Institute.

The Institute collaborates with the research schools NUTRIM, CARIM and GROW and forms together with the MERLN institute the “LINK” program. Multiple collaborations with external insitutes and industrial partners are in place.