PhD position in Biophysics at the University of Twente

Join the NBP group, a multidisciplinary team at the University of Twente, where physics, chemistry and biology converge. We are dedicated to understanding intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and their roles in biological processes. Our focus is on the study of IDPs in the context of neurodegenerative diseases, using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. We offer a collaborative, supportive, and professional working environment, encouraging interactions among our diverse team members, including PhD students, research technicians, and principal investigators.
Background and project aim:
Protein aggregation plays a significant role in many neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. The onset and progression of such diseases depends on a series of rare molecular events that are not yet well understood.
The aim of this project is to identify and study these rare events at the single-molecule level within cells. To achieve this, the project will focus heavily on advancing state-of-the-art single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy techniques, as well as single-molecule data analysis. Ultimately, these new developments should enable the monitoring of these poorly understood events.
Through this project, deeper insights into the molecular key players and mechanisms involved in triggering and spreading protein aggregation, as well as the factors that counteract or reverse this process will be gained. Initially, you will examine these rare events in reconstituted systems and then in a cellular context. A better understanding of these processes may lead to new prevention and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.

Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before 22 June 2024, and include:

• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position.                                      
• A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications and references.                 
• An IELTS-test, Internet TOEFL test (TOEFL-iBT), or a Cambridge CAE-C (CPE). Applicants with a non-Dutch qualification and who have not had secondary and tertiary education in English can only be admitted with an IELTS-test showing a total band score of at least 7, internet. TOEFL test (TOEFL-iBT) showing a score of at least 90, or a Cambridge CAE-C (CPE).

For more information regarding this position, you are welcome to contact
Mireille Claessens                                                                    [email protected]

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.