PhD Position Optical Methodologies for Protein Sequencing

Genome sequencing has become a standard technology in biomedical research. The technique is used to diagnose inherited diseases, target treatments, and identify health risks. Certain gene variants can increase a person's risk of diseases such as cancer and heart conditions. This technology makes use of innovative reagents, in combination with an optical microscope. A major drawback of this technology is that it only reveals the genetic baseline of biological processes.

The ability to measure the make-up of not only the genome but of proteins and protein expression, would create an enormous scientific opportunity as proteins are at the basis of all biological processes. We envision the realization of such protein sequencing methodology by building on recent developments in super-resolution microscopy. Super-resolution microscopy allows for circumventing the diffraction limit, to visualize otherwise invisible details within the cell. Super-resolution microscopy combines clever optical microscope designs followed by sophisticated image reconstruction.

During this Ph.D. project, the student will work on the development of optical techniques for protein sequencing. This can be achieved through an integrated approach that combines estimation theory, control of the illumination light of the microscope in space and time, and extremely fast and sensitive detection of the emitted light at a nanoscopic time scale. In this Ph.D. project, you will develop novel optical designs, statistical image analysis tools, and advanced control strategies. You will realize the sequencing of proteins and charter unknown scientific territory by deciphering biological processes one molecule at a time.

Departments

Precision and Microsystems Engineering

The Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering (PME) carries out research and provides education in the field of high-tech systems and scientific instrumentation. We aim to solve fundamental questions in engineering science to advance the performance of precision systems and devices as well as their design. Our specific mission is to merge mechanical engineering concepts with micro and nanoscience. Increasing miniaturization and functionality along with improving sensitivity, speed, and reliability are the key topics in our work.

Delft Center for Systems and Control

The department Delft Center for Systems and Control (DCSC) of the faculty of Mechanical, Maritime, and Materials Engineering coordinates the education and research activities in systems and control at Delft University of Technology. The center's research mission is to conduct fundamental research in systems dynamics and control, involving dynamic modeling, advanced control theory, optimization, and signal analysis. The research is motivated by advanced technology development in physical imaging systems, renewable energy, robotics, and transportation systems.