Quantitative information about the molecules that participate in the basic processes of life, ideally in a physiological context, are key to understanding the physical principles that underly cellular organization and function. Self-association, oligomerization and/or aberrant aggregation is crucial for the (dys-)function of many proteins. However, access to molecular copy numbers and live cell studies of structure-function relationships at enhanced resolution in 3D are not yet generally available. Super-resolution optical fluctuation microscopy (SOFI) provides a promising alternative for extracting sub-diffraction information about molecular densities and properties of fluorescent probes. SOFI is readily usable at high label densities and moderate laser powers, which are favorable conditions for live cell imaging.

In this project, you will turn SOFI into a robust tool for measuring molecule numbers and reading of fluorescence blinking-based probes/sensors in 3D with the help of simulations and experiments with DNA & protein-based standards in vitro and in (live) cells. You will evaluate organic dyes and fluorescent proteins and also explore new classes of fluorophores. This includes different flavors of so-called self-blinking dyes. You will also use these spontaneously fluctuating dyes (no need for chemicals or high-power lasers) to push multicolor live-cell SOFI to higher resolution and to 3D time-lapse imaging.

You will be an integral part of our team and have the opportunity to build a state of-the-art 3D multicolor super-resolution microscope. Your work will also include collaborating on quantitative super-resolution microscopy (PALM/STORM/SOFI) within the Department of Bionanoscience and beyond! Depending on your scientific profile and interests, the specific focus of the project can be adjusted.

For this interdisciplinary and fully funded project (4 years) we are looking for an enthusiastic experimentalist with a background in (bio-)physics, biochemistry, nanoscience or similar areas. Experience in single-molecule or cell microscopy and optics is a plus. The following skills will be necessary (and can be acquired) during this project: protein biochemistry techniques, cell culture, advanced data analysis, optics and super-resolution microscopy. We further expect the candidate to have a reliable and pro-active work style, to be communicative (in English) and interested in the broader field of Bionanoscience and thereby contributing to an open and interactive lab culture.

The qualified candidate will benefit from working in a growing multidisciplinary group (tudelft.nl/grussmayerlab) in a highly collaborative environment.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2395 per month in the first year to € 3061 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

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.

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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.

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