Project description
Growth of ice crystals can induce critical damage to living systems. Many lifeforms produce ice-binding proteins to protect themselves against frost damage at temperatures as low as -70oC. The physical basis of cryoprotection by ice-binding proteins is not well understood. We are developing innovative single-molecule methodology in order to directly resolve dynamic interactions between ice, water, and proteins on the nanometer length scale. New insights into the physics of ice-binding proteins can help to harness and optimize their cryoprotective potential in e.g. healthcare, crop protection, food technology, and anti-icing approaches.
 
Work description
In this project, current team-members are developing an innovative single-molecule analysis platform based on optical tweezers, super-resolution fluorescence microscopy, microfluidics, and novel refrigeration methods;
• The focus of this PhD position is on the exploitation of state-of-the-art biophysical instrumentation to study molecular interactions at the ice-water interface. This involves biochemical lab work, experimental optimization, data acquisition as well as analysis and modeling of results;
• In addition, the PhD student will assist in further developing the new single-molecule platform and design new assays to quantify dynamic molecular interactions of model systems such as DNA and of ice-binding proteins.
• The project involves collaboration with local, national, and international scientist in fields of physics, biology, and chemistry;
• The candidate is expected to publish his/her results in international peer-reviewed journals and present the work on national and international conferences.
 

The suitable candidate is ambitious and highly motivated to perform research at the highest international level, collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment, and holds an MSc degree in biophysics or similar, with:
• Demonstrable affinity and/or skills in using and optimizing optical instrument/methods and trouble-shooting these;
• Preferred experience with basic biochemical procedures;
• Experience with single-molecule force and/or fluorescence microscopy methods or other optical methodology is preferred but not essential;
• Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English.

The appointment will be initially for 1 year. After satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, it can be extended for a total duration of 4 years. You can find information about our excellent fringe benefits of employment at www.workingatvu.nl like:
• remuneration of 8,3% end-of-year bonus and 8% holiday allowance
• solid pension scheme (ABP);
• a minimum of 29 holidays in case of full-time employment;
• commuting allowance;
• discounts on collective insurances (healthcare- and car insurance);
 
The salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel, and amounts € 2,222.00 gross per month in the first year up to
€ 2,840.00 in the fourth year (salary scale 85) based on a full-time employment.

http://www.vu.nl/en/index.asp

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a leading, innovative, and growing university that is at the heart of society and actively contributes to new developments in teaching and research. Our university has ten faculties which span a wide range of disciplines, as well as several institutes, foundations, research centres, and support services. Its campus is located in the fastest-growing economic region in the Netherlands (the Zuidas district of Amsterdam), and provides work for over 4,500 staff and scientific education for more than 23,000 students.

The position will be in the Physics of Living Systems section of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science. This vibrant section consists of the groups of 5 principle investigators and is internationally renowned for the experimental and theoretical biophysics research in a variety of topics ranging from molecular to systems scales. The section is part of the Institute of Lasers, Life and Biophotonics (LaserLaB) Amsterdam and is equipped with unique world-class facilities for nanoscale imaging and manipulation. In particular, there is a long-standing expertise in development of innovative optical methodology dedicated to answering fundamental biophysical questions. The section is involved in many (inter)national collaborations and has a strong international atmosphere.