A candidate for the PhD position "Designing Proteins for Biosensors", a PhD project that is part of a collaboration between Wageningen University and Research (WUR), the Technical University Eindhoven (TUe) and six companies: Philips, Future Diagnostics, HyTest, Scienion, Stratec, and Synaffix. Aim of the collaboration is the development of next-generation point-of-care tests (POCT), with increased sensitivity and reliability, for example for rapid diagnosis of chest pain or acute infection. The project at WUR focuses on the precision immobilization of antibodies onto biosensor surfaces. Central to the project is the design and physical characterization of precisely defined "Molecular Gecko" polypeptide linkers for multivalent surface interactions, inspired by sequences of natural structural proteins such as elastins. The novel linker polypeptides should allow for ink-jet printing of antibodies on biosensor surfaces in a manner that retains their full activity, while non-specific adsorption (bio-fouling) is kept to a minimum. Proof-of-concept of the new "Molecular Gecko" polypeptide linker technology will be investigated within the consortium with medically relevant biomarkers.

We are looking for enthusiastic candidates with an MSc degree, preferably in chemical technology, biotechnology, chemistry or an equivalent program, with broad scientific interest. The candidate should be willing to do applied, interdisciplinary research that combines molecular biology (recombinant production of proteins) with physical and organic chemistry (physical behaviour of proteins, chemical conjugation to antibodies). Prior experience with recombinant production of proteins is a plus.

We offer you a temporary position for a period of 1.5 years with extension of 2.5 years after successful evaluation. Gross salary per month € 2222,-. in the first year rising up to € 2840,-. per month in the fourth year.
We not only offer a competitive salary but also good (study) leave and a pension of the ABP Pension Fund.

Wageningen University & Research

The Agrotechnology & Food Sciences Group is part of Wageningen University & Research where fundamental and applied sciences complement each other. As an important European player, we carry out top-level research and work alongside authoritative partners within the international business world as well as the government on "Healthy food in a biobased society". We have a crucial role in innovations within the market. Entrepreneurship and professionalism are what define us. In short, we are an interesting, international employer of stature.

Wageningen University & Research
Delivering a substantial contribution to the quality of life. That's our focus - each and every day. Within our domain, healthy food and living environment, we search for answers to issues affecting society - such as sustainable food production, climate change and alternative energy. Of course, we don't do this alone. Every day, 5000 people work on 'the quality of life', turning ideas into reality, on a global scale.

Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter and Organic Chemistry at Wageningen University
The main part of the project will be performed in the Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter group at Wageningen University (WUR-PCC, supervisor: dr. Renko de Vries). Besides, antibody modification and chemical coupling of the linker polypeptides thereto will be executed at the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry (WUR-ORC, supervisor: prof. Floris van Delft). The WUR-PCC group investigates the behavior of complex systems based on particles, polymers, surfactants and combinations of these, often referred to as 'soft matter'. Typical experimental techniques are scattering (light, X-rays, neutrons), rheology, (optical) microscopy and nanoscopic methods such as AFM and optical traps. Research is being done by 8 independent faculty members. Research in the Protein Soft Matter subgroup of associate professor Renko de Vries focuses on soft materials composed of proteins, both natural proteins (such as food proteins), as well as de-novo designed proteins. Research conducted within WUR-ORC is directed towards the study of organic reactivity at the forefront of 21st century chemistry, specifically at the overlap of nanotechnology, chemical biology, and organic synthesis. Special focus of the subgroup headed by professor van Delft is the development novel click chemistry reactions for site-specific protein modification technology.

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Acquisition regarding this vacancy is not appreciated.