At the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e),
we currently have a vacancy for a PhD in the field of microfluidics. To investigate the crosstalk between cells and biomaterials, we will develop a microfluidic device to electrokinetically manipulate cell-containing droplets.

The successful candidate is passionate about biomaterials engineering, microfabrication, surface chemistry, and cell studies. Doctoral research will be part of wider and exciting efforts currently spearheaded within the Biosensors and Devices Research Group.

Being part of the Immuno-engineering program, the work will be in close collaboration with researchers in Biomedical Engineering Department, Mathematics and Computer Science Department, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems and BioInterface Science Research Group.

Job Description

Crosstalk between cells and (bio)materials plays a key role in the cell differentiation process in regenerative medicine applications. For these applications, engineered biomaterials embeddedin microfluidic platforms can create functional and impactful research tools for cell screening.
In this project, you will develop innovative ways to create a microfluidic platform where you will investigate cell-material interactions, particularly using immune cells.

You will contribute to the high-throughput cell screening program of the Biosensors and Devices Research Group to improve the quality of body implants, by optimally controlling the immune response of the body by taking the advantage of the microscale phenomena.

The core of the Lab-on-a-Chip device will consist of hundreds of independent micro-units with fluidic access. In the micro-unit array, separate units will serve as bioreactors for cell culture and analysis of the biomarkers. The system will be modelled computationally, designed and manufactured. The microfluidic system will be characterized by standard tools used in microfabrication, while the bioreactor micro-units will be screened using microscopy, impedance, and biological assays. You are encouraged to do scientific research in the field described above, write a doctoral thesis, and publish research results in scientific journals.
An educational and professional development program is offered to all PhD candidates by Eindhoven University of Technology.

• A master's degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Microfabrication. 
• Prior experience with thin layer deposition, metrology techniques is a plus.
• Prior experience with microscopy techniques and cell culture is a plus.
• A research oriented demeanour.
• Ability to independently work within a dynamic team and to foster collaborations.
• Proficient in spoken and written English.

The position will be based at the Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands. Doctoral research will be performed within Biosensors and Devices Research Group in the Department of Biomedical Engineering under the supervision of dr. Burcu Gumuscu-Sefunc.

At Biosensors and Devices Research Group, we integrate biological, chemical, and microfluidic technologies to robustly interrogate, characterize and manipulate cellular activities. We enjoy making the design and hands-on development of microfluidic devices from scratch.

The research program is characterized by a broad approach to both discovery and application, seeking for combining high throughput technologies and experimental biology to streamline the wealth of biological knowledge to real clinical applications.

• A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university with the possibility to present your work at international conferences.
• A full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation after one year.
• To support you during your Ph.D. and to prepare you for the rest of your career, you will have free access to a personal development program for Ph.D. students (PROOF program).
• A gross monthly salary and benefits in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• Additionally, an annual holiday allowance of 8% of the yearly salary, plus a year-end allowance of 8.3% of the annual salary.
• A broad package of fringe benefits, including an excellent technical infrastructure, moving expenses, and savings schemes.
• Family-friendly initiatives are in place, such as an international spouse program, and excellent on-campus children daycare and sports facilities.