PhD: Instrumentation for quantitative nanoparticle analysis (valorization focus)

You will develop a holographic imaging platform, analysis pipelines and assays to move an existing technology from our labs to the market.

Your function

We are looking for a highly motivated student who is excited about developing optical instrumentation for applications in nanosizing and characterization. The project is based on NWO OTP funding and is a direct extension of previous work, with a strong focus on valorization and commercialization.

We have a first-generation holographic nanoparticle tracking platform, long-standing expertise, and a team of industrial collaborators from the pharmaceutical and clinical sectors. Based on these starting points, you will develop a second-generation platform that we want to test in the wet labs of our collaborators, thus taking crucial steps towards a commercially viable product.

Your tasks in the project will revolve around designing and building a second-generation holographic nanoparticle tracking platform, devising suitable sample chambers, and developing robust measurement protocols and analysis pipelines.

Your duties

• Develop and optimize a benchtop-compatible, turnkey, holographic nanoparticle tracking instrument
• Move sizing accuracy, precision and detection sensitivities to their absolute limits
• Devise computational strategies to ensure robust 3D particle tracking
• Improve measurement protocols and sample chamber geometries
• Interact with clinical and industrial stakeholders through frequent user meetings
• Be excited about valorization and commercialization
• Write and defend your PhD thesis

Your profile

You should be excited about experimental science at the intersection of fundamental and applied sciences and hold a master’s degree in physics, chemistry or engineering with an outstanding track record. Proficiency in English, written and oral, is required. Previous experience in microscopy, nanophotonics, optical design or computational imaging is desired but not a must. Finally, the ability to independently and creatively work in a diverse interdisciplinary environment is essential.

You will be a crucial partner in the QnA team comprising academic, clinical and commercial stakeholders from a variety of disciplines. As such, clear communication skills and a team-player attitude are crucial requirements. Due to the strong integration of all partners, you need to be able to attend regular in-person events at locations within Europe.

We realize that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore, we are happy to invite anyone who recognizes themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

What do we offer?

A challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world.

• A 1.0 FTE position
• Your employment contract will initially last 1 year and, if there is sufficient perspective, will be extended to a total of 4 years
• Attractive fringe benefits and regulations
• Contribution to commuting expenses
• Optional model for designing a personalized benefits package
• A wide range of sports facilities which staff may use at a modest charge

About us

Our team

We develop next-generation optical imaging and sensing platforms in the context of future biomedical, pharmaceutical and clinical applications. We are particularly interested in label-free or digital approaches: low-cost key enablers for democratizing state-of-the-art healthcare globally. We realise this vision by combining fundamental research with systematic platform and assay development. Sometimes, we meet our target by simplifying and adopting existing technologies. On many occasions, however, we start from a curiosity-driven hypothesis where applicability is a long-term high-gain objective. To realise our vision, we combine an interdisciplinary toolbox ranging from molecular biology over ultrafast optics to digital holography, with the key ingredient being creativity and room for personal development.

Faculty of Science

Researchers and students at VU Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science tackle fundamental and complex scientific problems to help pave the way for a sustainable and healthy future. Our teaching and research have a strong experimental, technical, computational and interdisciplinary nature.

We work on new solutions guided by value-driven, interdisciplinary methodologies. We are committed to research, valorisation and training socially engaged citizens of the world who will make valuable contributions to a sustainable, healthy future.

You will join undergraduate students, PhD candidates and researchers at the biggest sciences faculty in the Netherlands. We are proud of our collegial working climate, characterised by committed staff, a pragmatic attitude and engagement in the larger whole.