PhD Position Biomaterial Sciences Transcutaneous, Needle-Free Vascular Access for Hemodialysis

Help build a needle-free future for dialysis patients. Join TU Delft and LUMC to develop a transcutaneous vascular access, uniting biomaterials, medical technology and clinical nephrology.

Fundamental biomedical research and clinical impact come together in this four-year PhD project within the TRANSPORT programme. As a PhD candidate, you will work on the development of an innovative, transcutaneous and needle-free vascular access for hemodialysis. The project is a collaboration between Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), closely linking advanced biomaterials, medical technology and clinical nephrology.

What will you do?

• Design and optimise a transcutaneous vascular access port
• Develop and test biomaterials and surface coatings with a focus on hemocompatibility
• Perform in vitro experiments on thrombogenicity and biofilm formation under flow conditions
• Analyse, interpret and publish research results in international scientific journals

Where will you work?

You will be appointed at TU Delft and work within a research group with strong expertise in vascular access, large animal models and clinical translation. At the same time, you will be scientifically embedded in research groups at TU Delft focusing on biomaterials and additive manufacturing. This collaboration offers a unique environment where fundamental technology development is directly connected to clinical application.

Job requirements

• A completed MSc degree in Biomedical Engineering, Clinical Technology, Biomedical Sciences or a closely related field
• Affinity with biomaterials, medical devices and translational research
• Interest in experimental research and data analysis
• Good communication skills in English, both written and oral
• A critical and independent working attitude

TU Delft as an employer

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional.

Working at TU Delft means joining an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

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.

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.

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