Postdoc Integration of Novel Biosensor Measurements in Dynamic Bioprocess Models

Insight in the intracellular state of cell factories is key in robust bioprocess development. Will you explore the application of a novel free radical sensor in model-based scale-up of bioprocesses?

Job description

Among the many challenges faced by the growing bioeconomy, scaling biological systems to commercial volumes remains challenging. Well-calibrated dynamic bioprocess models can support this effort, but for these models to be representative of large-scale performance, measurements of the cellular response to various extracellular conditions are required. The team of Prof. Romana Schirhagl at the University medical center Groningen (UMCG) developed a novel sensing technique for real-time intracellular quantification of free radicals. Free radicals are involved in the cellular stress response as well as in aging, and therefore may correlate with bioprocess-relevant physiological traits, such as (by-) product formation. While this sensing technique was developed for medical applications, they are interested in its application in bioprocesses and how it may support successful scale-up. The bioprocess engineering section at TU Delft is collaborating with the group of Prof. Schirhagl to establish and evaluate this technology in a bioprocess context.

In this 2 year postdoctoral project, you will provide a proof-of-concept where cell stress measurements are integrated into (empirical or mechanistic) dynamic bioprocess models used to monitor the metabolic activity and productivity of a bioreactor. This project consists mainly of dry-lab activities and close collaboration with wet-lab activities by other positions in the consortium. Our objective is to learn if our approach is able to determine the health of a bioreactor culture as well as determine if free radicals can act as an early indicator of a bioreactor culture crash and/or as an indicator of scale-up success. You will be part of the bioprocess engineering section at TU Delft, department of biotechnology, and will mainly work with Dr. ir. Cees Haringa (bioprocess modelling) and Dr. ir. Marieke Klijn (process analytical technology). Furthermore, you will have a strong interaction with the team at UMCG, who will conduct the underlying experimental work.

We are looking for a postdoc with a strong background in the physiology of eukaryotic cell factories and modeling thereof, preferably in combination with a basic background in fermentation /bioprocess technology. To manage the different stakeholders in this project, obtain relevant experimental information from our partners, and to provide feedback for development and optimization of experimental procedures, we are looking for a candidate with good project management and communication skills.

Job requirements

• Completed PhD in cell physiology, bioprocess engineering, or a similar discipline
• Expertise in modelling / programming is desired
• Strong collaborative and project management skills
• Prior expertise with (online) sensing and data analysis is beneficial, but not mandatory

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft 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 values and we actively engage 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!

Faculty Applied Sciences

With 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.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years.
• A job of 36-40 hours per week.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. 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 Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.