About the opportunity
How can de novo proteins be designed for enabling continuous biomolecular sensing? That is your question! In this PhD project, you will explore a novel direction by developing and test binder molecules for continuous sensing using de novo protein design strategies. You will develop methodologies to design, make, screen, and test de novo proteins for incorporation in a particle-based continuous sensing platform with single-molecule resolution, called Biosensing by Particle Motion. The project is a collaboration between the Molecular Biosensing and the Protein Engineering research groups at TU/e, operating within the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems in Brainport Eindhoven.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment for four years with an intermediate assessment after nine months
- Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. 3,204 to max. 4,051 gross base salary per month for full-time)
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus calculated on annual gross base salary
- Standard 29 leave days per year, expandable up to 41 days through flexible working hours
- Participation in the ABP pension scheme with TU/e paying 70% of the premium
- High-quality training programs, technical infrastructure, and staff support
- Unlimited access to the TU/e Student Sports Center at an affordable rate
- Free 24/7 access to OpenUp for mental health support and wellbeing guidance
- Allowances for commuting, working from home, and internet costs
- Staff Immigration Team support and tax compensation scheme (Expat Scheme) for international candidates
Who can apply?
- A master's degree (or equivalent university degree) in molecular engineering sciences and/or analytical sciences, e.g., bioengineering, chemistry, biomedical engineering, analytical chemistry
- A research-oriented attitude
- Experimental and analytical skills with interests in biomolecular engineering, biosensors, biochemistry, and biophysics
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners
- Motivated to develop teaching skills and coach students
- Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level)
Required documents
- Cover letter describing motivation and qualifications for the position
- Curriculum vitae including contact information of three references
- Lists of courses and grades of BSc and MSc degrees (originals and transcripts)
- PDF copy of final BSc thesis
- PDF copy of final MSc thesis (if available)
When to apply
- Published date: September 3, 2026
- Last application date: October 11, 2026
How to apply
- Submit a complete application online using the apply button on the official vacancy page
- Ensure all required documents including transcripts and theses are attached
Additional information
- You will spend a minimum of 10% and a maximum of 15% per year of your four-year employment on teaching tasks
- A pre-employment screening such as a knowledge security check may be part of the selection procedure
- Due to the closure of the Dutch embassy in Tehran, applications from candidates residing in Iran cannot be considered at this time
- Unsolicited services from agencies are not accepted
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Master's degree holders in molecular engineering, chemistry, biomedical engineering, or related analytical sciences.
- Researchers with strong experimental and analytical skills and a specific interest in protein design and biosensors.
- Candidates who enjoy working in interdisciplinary teams and collaborating with industrial partners.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applicants residing in Iran are currently excluded from consideration due to embassy closures.
- The position requires a commitment to teaching tasks for 10% to 15% of the annual workload.
- The role is based on-site in Eindhoven, and candidates should be prepared for a rigorous selection process including potential security checks.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This project offers a deep dive into de novo protein design for continuous sensing, ideal for a candidate looking to bridge the gap between fundamental protein engineering and practical biosensing applications.
Our take
Candidates with a strong background in molecular engineering and a passion for experimental research should apply, as this role offers excellent support and infrastructure for a four-year doctoral project.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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