This project is a two year postdoctoral project in theoretical biophysics. The project focuses on efficient sensing and processing of signals in a gene regulatory context; we will analyze quantitatively what efficient sensing of chemical signals means given specific regulatory constraints. These questions will be asked abstractly initially and rely on simulations for various network architectures as well as analytics; they will also be pursued in collaboration with experimentalists in fly and other systems, in which the ideal candidate will take an active role.

The ideal candidate should have a PhD degree in theoretical physics, mathematics, computer science or a related natural science discipline, with a focus on theory and a strong interest in regulatory or developing systems. Good communication skills in English as well as programming skills are required.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years (1 year initially).

We offer an appointment as Postdoc for a period of 1 year, which will be extended with a second term of 1 year if the candidate performs well. Remuneration will be according to the scales set by the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU), and will range from €2.960,- to €4.670,- per month in the fourth year (gross amounts, in case of fulltime employment). 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.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of 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!

Faculty Applied Science

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.

Department

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.