PhD on artificial tissue research

Artificial cell research has taken a tremendous flight over the past decade. Using a bottom-up assembly approach it is possible to investigate how molecular interactions can be controlled to induce intelligent behaviour, which provides a better insight in the workings of living cells. Although much progress has been made, this has been mainly achieved on individual cells, whereas in biology cells moslty operate in tissues.   The challenge you address is to develop methods how to connect individual artificial cells in larger structures that show tissue-like behaviour. You investigate the possibility of  tissue growth and deformation, using a range of different techniques from supramolecular chemistry to synthetic biology.

You are connected to the gravitation program Materials-Driven Regeneration (https://mdrresearch.nl/), where you work together with colleagues with much experience in the area of tissue generation. You are furthermore embedded in the bio-organic chemistry group, especially the artificial cell cluster (https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-groups/macromolecular-and-organic-chemistry/bio-organic-chemistry).

You have an inquisitive mind and enjoy explorative research. You are skilled in experimental work related to organic chemistry and molecular biology. You like to work in a multidisciplinary project and interact very well with your colleagues, with whom you want to collaborate. You have strongly developed communicative skills and you like to present your work, also to a broader audience.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,770 max. €3,539).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.