PhD: Instrumentation for quantitative nanoparticle analysis (valorization focus

Your function

We are looking for a highly motivated student that is excited about developing optical instrumentation for applications in nanosizing and characterization. The project is based on NWO OTP-funding and a direct extension of previous work (1, 2,
3) 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
• writing and defending your PhD thesis

You should be excited about experimental science at the intersection of fundamental and applied scienes 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 and 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.

As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognizing that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset.

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.

A challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So in return for your efforts, we offer you:

• a salary of minimum € 3.204,00 (PhD) and maximum € 4.051,00 (PhD) gross per month in the fourth year, on a full-time basis.
• a 1.0 FTE position. Your employment contract will initially last 1 year.
  
  If there is sufficient perspective, this will be extended to a total of 4 years.

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and regulations. Some examples:

• A full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year. If you choose to work 40 hours, you have 96 extra holiday leave hours on an annual basis. For part-timers, this is calculated pro rata.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• 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

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:…