A temporary research assistant position is available in the research group of Dimphna Meijer, Department of Bionanoscience, Delft University of Technology, the Netherlands.

We are seeking an enthusiastic individual to join our team as a Cryo-EM technician on a temporary basis. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is interested in gaining work experience in a cutting-edge field of research

The long-term goal of our research is to understand synapse assembly and disassembly at the molecular level, during health and disease. We address questions such as: What is the underlying structural basis of synapse formation? What happens at the nanoscale in a diseased brain? We have recently determined several cryo-EM structures of synaptic cell adhesion molecules to reveal the molecular recognition code of synapses. Our group is now expanding and we are looking for a technician or research assistant to take a lead in setting up the cryo-EM imaging pipeline to follow-up on this work.

The successful applicant will provide support in cryo-EM sample preparation, cryo-EM imaging and data analysis. State-of-the-art equipment, including high-end light and cryo-electron microscopes and computational expertise is available in our department. 

Responsibilities:

• Preparing and processing samples for imaging
• Analyzing and interpreting data obtained from cryo-EM experiments
• Collaborating with researchers to design and execute experiments
• Contributing to the development and optimization of cryo-EM protocols

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

We are looking for a skilled research asssistant with a BSc/MSc degree in structural biology, or related field. We would also consider applicants with a PhD degree in a similar field. The ideal candidate enjoys efficiency, is an excellent team player and is interested in applying cryo-electron microscopy and cryo-electron tomography to neurobiological questions. Electron microscopy experience is required for this position. Cryo-EM experience is a plus.

Qualifications:

• BSc or MSc (or PhD) degree in a relevant field, e.g. structural biology, nanobiology, biochemistry
• Familiarity with cryo-EM equipment and techniques is preferred but not required
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

This position offers flexible working hours that can be tailored to the applicant's needs. It is an ideal opportunity for someone who is considering an academic career path and wants to gain relevant work experience. Please note that this is a temporary position and is intended for applicants who are seeking temporary and flexible employment opportunities.

We offer an appointment for a period of 1 year. Remuneration will be according to the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU), and depends on the level of education. Applicants should have the right to work in the Netherlands for the duration of the contract. Fulltime is considered to be 38 hours per week, but parttime is also possible.

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 Bionanoscience

The Department of Bionanoscience focuses on the fundamental understanding of biological processes, from the level of single molecules to the full complexity of living cells. This research provides fascinating insight in the molecular mechanisms that lead to cellular function. Furthermore it enables the in vitro bottom-up construction of cellular machinery and it impacts applications ranging from biomolecular diagnostics to novel antibiotics and targeted nanomedicine. The department features a strongly multidisciplinary and international team of scientists, whose research areas include single-molecule biophysics, synthetic biology, as well as (quantitative) cell biology.