PostDoc Method Development in cryo-EM/ET Sample Preparation

Delft University of Technology

  • Delft, Zuid-Holland
  • Contract
  • Voltijds
  • 29 dagen geleden
Challenge: Ultrafast imaging of biomolecular processes at high resolution.
Change: Combining single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and cryo-EM/ET.
Impact: Driving a profound understanding of life processes at the molecular scale.JOB DESCRIPTIONAre you motivated to push the frontiers of molecular imaging enabling us to look even deeper into how life works at the nanoscale? To learn how the machinery of life operates at the molecular scale, we need to understand dynamic structural changes underlying many essential biomolecular processes in the cell. This requires new experimental methods, as current technology only facilitates static imaging. As a Postdoc at TU Delft, you leverage your expertise of biophysics or structural biology to bring about a step change in dynamic imaging of biomolecular processes in reconstituted systems and in cells. You will collaborate with leading scientists and help drive correlative high-resolution imaging at ultrafast timescales.You will conduct research within the scope of a dedicated TU Delft-Utrecht University consortium, working closely with fellow researchers at the Marileen Dogterom and Anna Akhmanova Labs. The project’s aim is to study microtubule structure and dynamics in vitro and in situ using a combination of cryo-ET and advanced (cryo-)fluorescence microscopy. Drawing on the unique possibilities of MEMS technology, your specific task will be to develop a new high-speed sample preparation method for correlative snapshot imaging of dynamic molecular processes by single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and cryo-ET. This requires designing and implementing optical and precision-mechanical components, prototyping of MEMS supports, and establishing efficient workflows for correlative imaging at ultrafast timescales. Using sophisticated in vitro reconstitution assays, you will apply this method to map and understand structural transitions and stabilisation of microtubule ends.Your home base will be the at TU Delft | Kavli Institute of Nanoscience. We are a multidisciplinary and internationally diverse team of scientists with backgrounds ranging from molecular/cell biology and physics to mechanical engineering. Our drive is to push boundaries in our aim to visualise molecular processes at the highest possible resolution. As part of the Department of Bionanoscience and the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, we enjoy access to state-of-the-art infrastructure for nanofabrication, biochemistry and cell biology, imaging, and high-performance computing. Fostering a friendly, non-hierarchical, and collaborative atmosphere, we support each other by exchanging ideas and knowledge in the pursuit of our ambitious goals. And you will get all the support and training you need for your personal and professional growth.REQUIREMENTS
  • You hold a PhD (or will soon complete) in (bio)physics or a related field. We also welcome applications from candidates with a PhD degree in optics or nanosystems engineering who are motivated to venture into molecular imaging of biological systems.
  • You thrive on conducting pioneering research and pushing scientific boundaries, translating ideas into prototypes and physical experiments.
  • You have experience or a strong interest in method development geared to molecular imaging of biological systems.
  • You preferably have experience of MEMS prototyping and cleanroom processes.
  • You have experience, or a keen interest in cryo-EM/ET imaging.
  • You harness your communication skills to effectively collaborate with people from different cultural and scientific backgrounds.
  • You have a very good command of English because you will be working in an international environment.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENTFixed-term contract: 3 jaar.Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.For international applicants, TU Delft has the . This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.EMPLOYERDelft University of TechnologyDelft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the 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 as one of our core and we actively to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.Challenge. Change. Impact!DEPARTMENTFaculty Applied SciencesWith more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 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 educate innovative 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.Click to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.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.ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONIf you would like more information about this role, please contact please contact Dr Arjen Jakobi, Associate Professor, via +31 15 278 9249 or .

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