PhD Position Resolving Structure-Function Relationship of Cytoskeletal Proteins in Mammalian Cells

PhD: Resolving structure-function relationship of cytoskeletal proteins in mammalian cells by quantitative analysis of single-molecule localization data.

Job description
In order to keep human bodies healthy, cells have to continuously adjust to stress, such as DNA damage, nutrient deficiency and mechanical stress. Recently, the lamin family of cytoskeletal proteins have emerged as a key regulator of cell response to intrinsic and environmental stimuli. Lamins are the main architectural proteins of the nucleus and form a fibrous, highly stable meshwork underlying the inner nuclear membrane. The cell’s stress response triggers one of the lamin types, prelamin A, to accumulate, which affects important cellular processes such as cell cycle progression, DNA-replication, chromatin remodeling and senescence.

However, fundamental knowledge on the transmission of mechanical signals from cytosolic cytoskeletal protein networks to the lamina and lamin-dependent mechanism that allow for adaptation to mechanical is currently lacking. In this project, we aim to obtain fundamental understanding on the interplay and adaptation of various cytoskeletal proteins to convey mechanical stress to the nuclear content by investigating protein network structures in healthy and diseased cells. For this purpose, we aim to employ state-of-the-art 3D super-resolution microscopy and design novel quantitative data analysis pipe lines to enhance our understanding of pathogenic conditions underlying ageing and cancer.

We, the Geertsema lab, are an experimental biophysics lab employing super-resolution imaging techniques to improve understanding of cellular structures at the nanometer scale. As a recently started research group, we offer an interactive, supportive and collegial environment. We perform multidisciplinary research where we combine techniques from biophysics, microscopy, cell biology, biochemistry and protein engineering.

The Geertsema lab is embedded in the Imaging Physics Department of the TU Delft, which focusses on developing and implementing novel imaging technologies. The department features an inspiring, welcoming and pioneering environment for researchers that want to push the boundaries and implementation of current imaging systems.

Requirements
We are seeking an outstanding computational scientist with a strong interest in research at the interface of physics and biology. Research experience in fields such as biophysics, single-molecule techniques, optical microscopy, computational science or related is highly desired. We are looking for a team-player who can work independently and has a genuine interest in fundamental research.

Applicants must:

• Hold a Master’s degree, or approach its completion, in (bio)physics, biochemistry, engineering, nanoscience, or a closely related discipline
• Have excellent written and spoken English skills
• Thrive in an international and multidisciplinary team
• Affinity with super-resolution microscopy, Python and quantitative data analysis pipelines is a plus

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, 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, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Applied Sciences
With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

Conditions of employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with 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.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2872 per month in the first year to € 3670 in the fourth year. 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.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Hylkje Geertsema, via h.j.geertsema@tudelft.nl .

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 22 Nov 2024 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Motivational letter

You can address your application to Hylkje Geertsema.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• A knowledge security check will be part of the selection procedure (for details page 45: national knowledge security guidelines).
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

38 - 40 hours per week

Mekelweg 5