Postdoc Computational Cryo-EM Method Development

We seek a highly-motivated postdoctoral researcher to develop advanced computational methods for cryogenic electron tomography (cryo-ET) that enable the visualization of molecular complexes directly within cells.

A central focus of the project will be the development of improved image simulation frameworks. These simulations will not only serve as benchmarking tools for method development, but will play a key role in a tightly integrated experimental-computational workflow. In close collaboration with experimental researchers, the candidate will use simulation-driven insights to guide the design and optimisation of molecular probes that enable the specific identification of target complexes within densely packed cellular tomograms.

In parallel, the candidate will develop and implement novel computational strategies that combine physics-based modeling, optimization techniques, and machine learning approaches to improve cryo-ET image processing workflows. This includes key challenges such as tilt series alignment and 3D template matching, as well as broader contributions to cryo-ET data analysis, including particle detection and the quantitative interpretation of tomograms.

The position involves close interaction with experimentalists, and the candidate will actively support ongoing projects by developing and applying image processing pipelines, assisting in data interpretation, and ensuring that methodological advances translate into facilitating biological discovery.

Your home base will be the Jakobi Lab at TU Delft | Kavli Institute of Nanoscience. We are a multidisciplinary and internationally diverse team of scientists with backgrounds ranging from (bio)chemistry and physics to bioinformatics and cell biology. As part of the Department of Bionanoscience and the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, we enjoy access to state-of-the-art infrastructure for biochemistry, molecular imaging, cryoEM/ET and high-performance computing.

We are also committed to world-class education, and you will have the opportunity to contribute by mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. We foster a friendly, collaborative, and non-hierarchical environment where ideas and expertise are openly shared in pursuit of ambitious scientific goals. You will receive strong support and training to further your personal and professional development.

Job requirements

We seek an outstanding computational scientist, bioinformatician, physicist, or interdisciplinary researcher with a strong affinity for developing methods at the interface of computation, physics, and structural biology. The ideal candidate has a genuine interest in advancing fundamental methodology for cryogenic electron tomography and enjoys working closely with experimental researchers to translate computational advances into practical biological insights. We are looking for a candidate with intellectual creativity, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively across disciplines.

Required qualifications

• You hold a PhD in computational science, physics, applied mathematics, bioinformatics, structural biology, or a related field.
• You have strong computational and programming skills (e.g. Python, Julia, C++), including experience with scientific computing and machine learning libraries and high-performance computing.
• You have experience with image analysis or computational imaging, ideally in the context of electron microscopy, tomography, or related modalities.
• You have demonstrated experience in developing algorithms or computational methods, for example in image simulation, optimization, or data analysis workflows.
• You have an interest in, or experience with, machine learning approaches for scientific data analysis.
• You have a strong interest in interdisciplinary research and enjoy collaborating with experimental scientists.
• You communicate clearly and effectively in English, as you will work in an international research environment.

Ideally, you also have

• Experience with cryo-EM or cryo-ET data analysis, including areas such as tilt series alignment, 2D/3D template matching, or subtomogram averaging.
• Experience with physics-based modeling or simulation of imaging processes.
• Familiarity with scientific software development.
• A track record of peer-reviewed publications demonstrating methodological or computational contributions.

About the employer

TU Delft, together with the Faculty of Applied Sciences and the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, offers an inspiring scientific environment for interdisciplinary research.