Postdoc on Implementation of Serial ED for Protein Crystals at Eindhoven University of Technology

About the opportunity

As a Postdoc at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), you will take the lead on implementing serial electron diffraction (Serial ED) on a novel table-top setup developed within the ERC-funded project ‘Cool T-ReX’. Working in the Department of Applied Physics and Science Education within the Coherence and Quantum Technology group, you will collaborate with two PhD candidates, the principal investigator (Julius Huijts), and experienced technicians. Your primary focus is demonstrating time-resolved protein crystallography using electrons instead of X-rays, utilizing protein crystals from collaborators and Graphene Liquid Cells assembled via commercial solutions.

Salary and benefits

• Full-time employment for 2.5 years with a flexible start date ideally around February 1, 2027.
• Gross base salary ranging from €4,422 to €5,760 per month in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (scale 10).
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus calculated on annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options starting at 29 days per year, expandable up to 41 days with two extra working hours per week.
• Participation in the ABP pension scheme with TU/e covering 70% of the premium.
• High-quality training programs, technical infrastructure, and access to the on-campus Student Sports Center and OpenUp mental health support.
• Partially paid parental leave and allowances for commuting, working from home, and internet costs.
• Support from a Staff Immigration Team, potential tax compensation via the Expat Scheme, and moving expense compensation for international candidates.

Who can apply?

• Hold a PhD in serial ED (or microED), preferably focused on protein crystals.
• Possess experience or proven affinity with method development and/or instrumentation development.
• Ability to work effectively in a team, remain open to new ideas, and communicate across fields.
• Take initiative and organize your own workload efficiently.
• Demonstrable experience in areas such as mechanical and optical design, complex optical setups, charged particle optics, lasers and nonlinear optics, high vacuum, or high voltage is advantageous.
• Ability to conduct high-quality academic research supported by demonstrable outputs.
• Excellent written and verbal proficiency in English, alongside strong communication and leadership skills.

Required documents

• Cover letter describing motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae including a publication list and contact details of three references.
• List of up to five self-selected best publications.

When to apply

• Published on October 21, 2026.
• Application deadline is November 21, 2026.

How to apply

• Submit your complete application online using the apply button on the vacancy page.
• Ensure all required documents, including your cover letter, CV, and publication list, are attached.
• Note that email and postal applications will not be processed.

Additional information

• The position is part of the EU-funded project Cool T-ReX (project number 101304364) under the HE / ERC program.
• A pre-employment screening, such as a knowledge security check, may form part of the selection procedure in accordance with National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• For inquiries, contact hiring manager Julius Huijts at j.v.huijts@tue.nl or HR services at HRServices.apse@tue.nl.