PhD Position Structural Biology of the Neuronal Synapse

Are you fascinated by how neuronal synapses assemble at the molecular level? Join our lab to explore synapse formation with cryo-EM/ET imaging in a supportive and ambitious research environment.

Job description

A 4-year PhD position is available in the research group of Dr. Dimphna Meijer at the Department of Bionanoscience, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), the Netherlands.

The long-term goal of our research is to understand synapse assembly and disassembly at the molecular level, during health and disease. We address questions such as: What is the structural basis of synapse formation? What happens at the nanoscale in a diseased brain? Recently, we determined several cryo-EM structures of synaptic cell adhesion molecules that together reveal part of a molecular recognition code.

In this project, you will take a bottom-up approach to study synapse assembly. You will work with minimal, well-controlled synaptic assemblies and characterize them using cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), and complementary light microscopy approaches.

Specific objectives

• Setting up a cryo-ET FIB SEM workflow for synaptic assemblies
• Visualizing the nanoscale architecture of synaptic assemblies
• High-resolution structure determination of synaptic cell-adhesion molecule pairs
• Confirmative structure-function studies in primary neurons

You will be the scientific driver of the project and gradually grow towards independence as a researcher, while working closely with the PI and other group members. You will receive hands-on supervision and training in cryo-ET, structural biology and advanced microscopy.

The department offers state-of-the-art facilities, including high-end light and (cryo-)electron microscopes and advanced mammalian cell culture infrastructure.

Why join the Meijer lab?

You will join an international research group that values scientific rigor, open discussion and mutual support. As a PhD candidate, you will be closely supervised while being encouraged to develop your own ideas and scientific independence. The project combines fundamental questions with cutting-edge methods, offering excellent opportunities for personal and scientific growth.

Job requirements

We are looking for a curious, motivated and collaborative researcher who is excited to work at the interface of structural biology and neuroscience.

• You hold a M.Sc. degree in nanobiology, biochemistry/biophysics, structural biology, or a related field.
• You have experience with electron microscopy or structural biology approaches, or a strong interest in learning these techniques.
• Experience with cryo-EM or cryo-ET is a strong plus but not required.
• You are fluent in English and enjoy working in an international research environment.

TU Delft as an employer

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

TU Delft offers a top international research environment combining science, engineering and design, with strong activity in biotechnology, health, and related innovation areas relevant to this position.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

If you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job, TU Delft offers support to help make your move as smooth as possible, including relocation guidance, events to help you settle in Delft, and a Dual Career Programme for accompanying partners.