Postdoctoral fellow in active self-organization of DNA-coated polymersomes

Are you fascinated by the way cells organize into intricate structures and do you have a PhD in soft matter physics/chemistry? We are looking for an enthusiastic scientist to join our team and help develop experimental model systems for bioinspired self-organization.

Information
In our lab, we take a biomimetic approach to addressing fundamental questions about biological self-organization. We build experimental model systems using soft materials such as vesicles, colloids, emulsions, and polymers, that mimic specific features of living systems, such as the ability to self-organize, to move directionally, or to communicate chemically.

In this project, you will produce an experimental model of DNA-coated polymersomes with controllable stickiness to learn about the competition between adhesion and elastic deformation in the motion of cells in dense tissues . To grow from a shapeless clump into an intact animal, cells must move by pushing each other out of the way. How strong the cells stick together plays an important role in this process, but it is unknown how exactly changes in their stickiness affect their movement. You will address this question.

Practically, you will develop skills in microfluidics, DNA nanotechnology, microscopy, and image analysis to make and study the model system. You will also compare your findings to literature results from simulations and living cells.

You will join a diverse team of chemists, physicists, and biologists in the Self-Organizing Soft Matter lab with a range of nationalities. Our lab encourages collaborations and teamwork and fosters an inclusive working environment.

We are seeking a talented, motivated, and enthusiastic researcher with a background in physical chemistry or soft matter.

The successful candidate has:

• A PhD in Physical Chemistry, Soft Matter, or a related topic.
• Experience with microfluidics, polymersomes, and DNA nanotechnology.
• A quantitative approach to research.
• Scientific curiosity and motivation to do original, fundamental research.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team of physicist and chemists.
• Motivation to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
• Good communication skills: you must be fluent in spoken and written English.

You should be interested in honing your experimental skills including microfluidics, DNA nanotechnology, microscopy, and quantitative image analysis. You should be interested a critical comparison between experimental data and theoretical predictions. Applications for independent funding are supported and encouraged.

An interview and a scientific presentation are part of the selection process.

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 2 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,060 max. € 5,331).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.