Research in Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology generates large information flows, for example from multi-scale modelling of dynamic industrial processes, multi-level ‘omics’ analysis of cell factories, analysis of novel (bio)catalysts and the fast development and implementation of miniaturised, high-throughput analytical platforms. Integrating these diverse datasets at all relevant spatial and temporal scales using artificial intelligence (AI) approaches holds the potential for a radical transformation of process development. Moreover, across the full range of our computational and experimental research activities, modern data science and AI strategies offer exciting options to accelerate design, analysis and engineering of (bio)catalysts and processes.

With a strong background in chemical engineering and/or biotechnology and proven experience in application of AI, you will develop a new research line in one of our departments that harnesses AI to address a relevant scientific or engineering challenge. In this position you will initiate active collaborations with colleagues in the Faculty of Applied Sciences as well as with AI/data scientists in the Department of Intelligent Systems of the TU Delft’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Informatics. You will have the opportunity to take an active role in the development and teaching of AI-related modules in our BSc/MSc programmes in Molecular Science and Technology and Life Science and Technology. Your role will play a part in strengthening our research and education in Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology.

Research programmes you will be part of could fit within the following, non-exclusive, descriptions:

• Discovery of new functional materials and/or (bio)catalysts
• Automation and optimization of high-throughput computational screening and synthesis
• Accelerated design of inorganic or protein catalysts
• Engineering of cellular metabolic and regulatory networks based on multi-omics data
• Multi-scale design, analysis and optimization of dynamic industrial processes

The faculty has the ambition to strengthen its position in AI education as well, as an understanding of the principles and applications of modern data science and AI is essential for new generations of biotechnologists and chemical engineers. It is anticipated that all bachelor and master programmes will incorporate an AI-component in the near future. The relevant programmes here are Molecular Science & Technology (BSc), Chemical Engineering (MSc) and Life Science & Technology (BSc, MSc). You will take the lead in developing the AI components of these educational programmes. This requires setting up courses that add synergistically to the existing learning lines, as well as coordinating a coherent vision on AI education in biotechnology and biochemical engineering, taking also into account embedding in the broader scope of AI in the engineering sciences. It is expected of the candidate to propose a vision on education in AI as well, considering the context described above.

Artificial intelligence, data and digitalisation are becoming increasingly important when looking for answers to major scientific and societal challenges. TU Delft is recruiting 16 talented researchers, who will have the opportunity to push the boundaries of science by using AI. Your drive is to solve research questions which arise from scientific and societal challenges and contribute to the development and execution of domain specific education. You will be a member of the thriving Artificial Intelligence community within TU Delft that fosters cross-fertilization between talents with different expertise and disciplines. The TU Delft AI Labs (DAI-Labs) are a perfect example how different disciplines work together in the field of AI.

You are expected to actively pursue collaboration within TU Delft with an AI expert. The faculty will help you in the matchmaking process with potential junior research partners in other faculties to establish a DAI-lab with a clear focus on research, education, and societal value. You are expected to propose a clear and appealing vision on a cooperation that would fit with your profile. Your position will be in the Departments of Biotechnology or Chemical Engineering. The academic ambitions span the full range from fundamental discovery to inventing engineering solutions, and is approached by both fostering individual excellence and by investing in collaborative frameworks with relevant stakeholders in the different fields of science and the various application areas.

The Departments Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology integrate fundamental research and engineering to support and enable sustainable innovation in industry and in society at large.  Designing, building and testing novel and improved functional materials and processes, which contribute to energy transition, sustainability and circular economy, is at the core of our research. Our scientific programmes cover and integrate experimental and modelling research at all relevant spatial scales from molecule to factory.

An understanding of the principles and applications of modern data science and AI is essential for new generations of chemical engineers and biotechnologists. Our Departments share an urgent ambition to integrate these approaches in our education programmes. To prepare the ground for this step, we recently upgraded modules on practical programming skills in our BSc programmes.

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology or a relevant field.
• Ambitious vision on the development of your own research programme using AI
• Experience working with large amounts of data and AI.
• An excellent academic track record reflected by publications in leading international journals.
• Experience with teaching and mentoring is considered an advantage.
• The ability to work in a team and inspire others, take initiative and be results oriented
• Good communication skills in verbal and written English.

Fixed-term contract: 6 years.

At the start of the tenure-track, you will be appointed as Assistant Professor for the duration of six years. Section leader, department leaders and you will agree upon expected performance and (soft) skills. You will receive formal feedback on performance and skills during annual assessment meetings and the mid-term evaluation. If the performance and skills are evaluated positively at the end of the tenure track, you will be appointed in a permanent Assistant Professor position.

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.

TU Delft sets specific standards for the English competency of the teaching staff. The TU Delft offers training to improve English competency. Inspiring, excellent education is our central aim. If you have less than five years of experience and do not yet have your teaching certificate, we allow you up to three years to obtain this.     

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Applied Sciences

With more than 1,000 employees, including 135 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,400 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we train students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers and science communicators.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.