PhD Position: Single Molecule Biophysics

Are you curious about how proteins influence the mechanical properties of DNA? And do you enjoy research at the single-molecule level to answer fundamental questions in biology? Then this may be the opportunity you are looking for!

The precise packaging of DNA by structural proteins is fundamental to maintaining genome integrity and regulating cellular function. These structural proteins govern the physical topology of the genome, translating molecular-level interactions into the large-scale architecture required for living cells. Disruptions in these structural processes are often linked to severe genetic disorders and cancer, underscoring the importance of understanding their mechanics. Our lab employs single-molecule biophysics to investigate the fundamental properties of protein-DNA interactions.

In this project, you will use optical tweezers to probe the dynamics and force-responses of structural proteins at the single-molecule level. The goal is to uncover the physical principles that drive DNA organisation and how their dysfunction contributes to disease.

We are seeking a scientist with a strong interest in chromatin biology who is eager to engage in multidisciplinary research. You will join the Chromatin Biophysics group at the Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences under the supervision of Dr Jorine Eeftens. You will work closely with fellow group members in a multidisciplinary team, ranging from physicists to medical biologists. Our group maintains strong connections with the Institute for Molecules and Materials, providing ample opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration within the institutes and with external partners. You will assist in interdisciplinary teaching, with a teaching load up to 10% of your working time.

At Radboud University, I can fully focus on expanding my expertise while learning from my peers and mentors.

Noemí Segura-Solé, PhD candidate in Microbial Ecology

After completing my Master’s degree in Norway, I looked at several European universities for a PhD position, including the university where I studied. Then I saw a job opportunity at Radboud University, which aligned perfectly with my interests. After a great first impression of my supervisors during the job interview and positive feedback about Radboud University from my network, I decided to take the leap and move to Nijmegen. It was a risk to leave my Norwegian comfort zone, but I am extremely satisfied with my choice.

From the start, I immediately felt welcomed by the whole department. I have many social interactions with other PhD candidates, and the senior researchers are very approachable and interested in my research. Thanks to these factors, I can fully focus on expanding my expertise while learning from my peers and mentors.

Noemí Segura-Solé, PhD candidate in Microbial Ecology

Does this sound like you?

• You have an MSc degree in Molecular Sciences, Biophysics, Nanobiology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• You are eager to expand your skills by working in an interdisciplinary field and team.
• You have excellent communication and writing skills (in English).
• It would be advantageous if you have experience with optical tweezers and/or chromatin biology.

What we offer you

• We will give you a temporary employment contract (0.8 FTE 5-year contract - 1.0 FTE 4-year contract) of 1.5 years, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, your contract will be extended by 2.5 years (4-year contract) or 3.5 years (5-year contract).
• You will receive a starting salary of €3,059 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, which will increase to €3,881 from the fourth year onwards.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

Additional employment conditions

Work and science require good employment practices. Radboud University's primary and secondary employment conditions reflect this. You can make arrangements for the best possible work-life balance with flexible working hours, various leave arrangements and working from home. You are also able to compose part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, exchange income for extra leave days and receive a reimbursement for your sports membership. In addition, you receive a 34% discount on the sports and cultural activities at Radboud University as an employee. And, of course, we offer a good pension plan. We also give you plenty of room and responsibility to develop your talents and realise your ambitions. Therefore, we provide various training and development schemes.

Where you will be working

The Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS) is a leading interfaculty research institute of the faculties of Science (FNWI). Research areas of RIMLS include epigenetics, stem-cell and developmental biology, computational biology and biophysics. RIMLS operates its own wet lab, microscopes and computational facilities, and currently has about 60 researchers, providing a vibrant and international working environment. The Eeftens team also has strong links with the Institute for Molecules and Materials (IMM), renowned for expertise in physical chemistry and soft matter, providing a synergistic multidisciplinary research environment.

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science (FNWI), part of Radboud University, engages in groundbreaking research and excellent education. Currently, more than 1,300 colleagues contribute to research and education, some as researchers and lecturers, others as technical and administrative support officers. The faculty has a strong international character with staff from more than 70 countries. Together, we work in an informal, accessible and welcoming environment, with attention and space for personal and professional development for all.