PhD Position Theoretical Biophysics

How do cells read time, not just concentration? Join us to explore signal duration in gene regulation — bridging statistical physics, stochastic processes, and real biology.

Job description

During the development of an organism, gene regulation allows proteins to be expressed so that different cells can fulfil different functions. Traditionally, it has been assumed that the concentration of a particular transcription factor protein presents a signal that regulates gene expression downstream. However, in early development, it is often the duration of a signal that regulates gene expression.

In this project, we will explore how organisms can extract information from the duration of a signal theoretically, in tight collaboration with experimental colleagues. The project requires interest in developing statistical physics, stochastic processes, or information methods, a focus on numerics and analytics, an interest in modeling, and a genuine interest in engaging in the biological system and working closely with our collaborators.

Job requirements

• Masters in Physics, Computer Science, Nanobiology, Mathematics, Bioengineering or a related discipline
• Interest in statistical physics, stochastic processes and data analysis methods
• Interest in engaging and collaborating with experimental colleagues

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

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, its engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

Faculty Applied Sciences

With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as about 3,600 students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. The faculty focuses on key enabling technologies such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion. Its scientists conduct fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes 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.

As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. This is done, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest.