During our lifetimes, we copy approximately a lightyear’s worth of DNA, and how the different components of the molecular machinery (the replisome) work together to achieve this successfully is an area of highly active research.  Here, you will take on the exciting challenge of understanding the dynamics of DNA replication by reconstituting and studying the activity of eukaryotic replisome at the single-molecule level, on bare DNA and/or chromatin substrates. You will examine replisome composition, replisome motion dynamics, and the interplay between these two quantities; and examine how these change in the context of chromatin or obstacles on the DNA. To do so, you will develop and harness novel biophysical instrumentation (e.g. fluorescence imaging, single-molecule force spectroscopy, or other forms of microscopy) while making effective use of supporting biochemical technologies (protein purification, DNA sequencing). You will analyze the resulting datasets using biophysical modelling, interact with collaborators in molecular biology and biochemistry in the United Kingdom (involving extensive visits), and in doing so, publish high-quality scientific papers to advance this exciting field.

We are looking to hire an outstanding experimentalist for this exciting NWO-funded collaborative project at the interface of biophysics and biochemistry. We have an opening for an outstanding postdoc trained in biophysics who is keen to advance the field of DNA and chromatin replication dynamics from a mechanistic perspective. You will be responsible for proposing, planning, and carrying out biophysical experiments and for analysing data. You will interpret the results of your biophysical experiments on the basis of detailed analysis of the data and in conjunction with biochemical advances in the field. You will both receive state-of-the-art training and, subsequently, provide it to others (e.g. Ph.D. students, new group members). You will provide individual initiative within a context of respectful teamwork. A strong background in biophysics and optics is a necessity. A good command of spoken and written English is a must.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year.

The 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 child care 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.

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!

Department

Department of Bionanoscience and Faculty of Applied Sciences

The Department of Bionanoscience focuses on research at the interface between nanoscience, synthetic biology, and cell biology. It studies single cells in all their complexity down to the molecular level, from both fundamental scientific and application points of view. This vibrant department operates as part of the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience at the Faculty of Applied Sciences and occupies a leading international position.

The Faculty of Applied Sciences is the largest faculty of TU Delft, with around 550 scientists, a support staff of 250 and 1,800 students. The faculty conducts fundamental, application-oriented research and offers scientific education at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels. The faculty is active in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Applied Physics. 

The Nynke Dekker Lab

The Nynke Dekker Lab is a highly successful single-molecule biophysics research lab within the Department of Bionanoscience at the TU Delft. Our lab focuses its studies on understanding DNA and RNA replication from a quantitative perspective both in vitro and in vivo. To do so, we employ state-of-the-art biophysical techniques (e.g. advanced single-molecule fluorescence, optical and magnetic tweezers, microscopy development, and microfluidics) together with in-house molecular biology and biochemistry. Studying the dynamics of DNA and RNA replication at the single-molecule level requires broad and integrated expertise; as such, we employ outstanding international scientists trained in biophysics, biochemistry, or cell biology who work together enthusiastically as a multidisciplinary team. You will be part of this group and will interact actively with current members.