Join us - we look forward to welcoming you to our Self-Organizing Soft Matter Research Group at Eindhoven University of Technology!

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with a passion for polymer chemistry, self-assembly, and characterization of functional materials to join our team to design, synthesize, and study ice-interactive biomaterials varying in shape, size, and surface chemistry. The goal of your project is to synthesize a novel platform of self-assembling ice-interactive biomaterials and elucidate their structure-function relations to tailor activity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct high-quality, curiosity-driven, original, and independent research focusing on the design, synthesis, and characterization of self-assembling biomaterials that interact with ice
• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary and international team of researchers
• Present research findings at conferences and publish in top-tier scientific journals
• Mentor and support junior researchers in the lab

The formation and growth of ice during freezing, storage, and/or thawing of cryopreserved materials limits the potential of cryopreservation technology for the long-term storage of sensitive materials, such as cells, tissues, and organs. In this project, you will design, synthesize, and study a novel class of water-soluble polymer-based biomaterials, which modulate ice formation and growth and can be prepared in a scalable manner. You will further develop this platform of self-assembling ice-interactive macromolecules, study their self-assembly in solution into polymeric nanoparticles with customized structure and properties, and elucidate their structure-function relations to tailor activity. In this exciting role, you will work in a vibrant and international research group aiming to advance molecular insight into the working mechanism of novel ice-interactive materials for biomedical applications.

• PhD in Polymer Science, Soft Matter, Nanoscience, (Physical) Chemistry, Materials Science, Molecular (Life) Sciences, or related area, obtained within the last four years
• Passionate about polymer science interfacing with biomedicine, (biological) soft matter, chemical biology, and regenerative medicine
• Strong qualifications and expertise in polymer synthesis, self-assembly, characterization of polymer micelles and particles, and relevant experimental techniques such as light scattering, small angle X-ray scattering, and/or cryogenic electron microscopy
• Familiarity with crystallization-driven assembly, PISA, water-soluble block copolymers, surface functionalization
• Ability to conduct high-quality academic research, demonstrated by an outstanding PhD thesis, publications in reputable scientific journals, and presentations at international meetings
• Strong motivation to do excellent, original, fundamental research.
• Proficiency in the English language, excellent written and oral communication and leadership skills. Note that there is no Dutch language requirement.
• Independent and goal-oriented scientist. Team player and able to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international context.

• A dynamic and stimulating research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities
• Collaborative opportunities with leading experts in the field
• A full-time employment for 1 year, with a possibility of an extension for maximum 2 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 3.226,- max. € 5.090,-).
• Free access to opportunities for professional growth and career development through training programs for research, valorization, and  professional development
• A gross monthly salary and benefits in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• 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 day care and sports facilities.