A 2-year position is available for a postdoctoral researcher in the research group of Dimphna Meijer, Department of Bionanoscience, Delft University of Technology, the Netherlands.

The long-term goal of our research is to understand how neurons form networks on the molecular and cellular level. We address questions such as: How do neuronal circuits develop at the cellular level? Are trans-synaptic protein complexes assembled sequentially or simultaneously? What is the underlying structural basis of trans-synaptic signaling? We have recently determined the cryo-EM structure of a number of synaptic cell adhesion molecules that reveal how trans-synaptic complexes connect pre-and postsynaptic membranes. We are now aiming to understand trans-synaptic complex formation in a cellular context using a combination of protein biochemistry, structural biology and mammalian cell biology approaches.

The successful applicant will be the driver of a new project concerning detailed structural characterization of neuronal synapse assembly in a cellular context. State-of-the-art equipment, including high-end light and electron microscopes, as well as mammalian cell culture facilities are available to us in our department. With the support of technicians and experts in our research team, the postdoc will reconstitute a minimal synaptic junction to enable cryo-electron tomography of trans-synaptic complexes in a cellular setting.

We are an international, growing team of multidisciplinary scientists. We aim for a high impact, supportive environment, where talented people work together to solve quantitative questions in neuroscience. See also our group website www.dimphnameijerlab.org.

We are looking for a highly motivated and goal-oriented postdoctoral researcher with a Ph.D. degree in microbiology, cell biology, structural biology, or related field. The ideal candidate has a background in structural biology and is interested in applying cryo-electron tomography imaging and image analysis to neurobiological questions. The candidate should be fluent in English and motivated to work in an ambitious and collaborative research team.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount 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. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

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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