PhD Position in Radiation-sensitive Block Copolymer Micelles at TU Delft

As part of a large national consortium aimed at the development of nanoparticle-based immunotherapy for cancer treatment, you will design, synthesize, and characterize radiation-sensitive block copolymers that self-assemble into micelles, and test their ability to encapsulate and release immunotherapeutic agents. You will develop a library of block copolymers with variations in polymer block length and structure, as well as the radiation-sensitive linker. You will assess the efficiency of radiation-induced polymer degradation and cargo release, as well as initial cell studies. The project will be carried out as a collaboration between the groups of prof. Rienk Eelkema (Chemical Engineering) and prof. Antonia Denkova (Radiation Science and Technology).

Vereisten

You have an MSc degree in chemistry, chemical engineering or equivalent.
You have proven expertise in multistep organic synthesis.
You have experience in purification and characterization of organic molecules.
Experience in polymer synthesis, polymer characterization and physical chemistry are desirable.
You work well in a team.
You have a high level of written and spoken English.

Wat We Bieden

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference. For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means joining an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Aanstellingsvoorwaarden

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 €3204 - €4051 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a full-time contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%. As a PhD candidate, you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School, which 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 customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Relocatie

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to making your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organizes events to help you settle in the Netherlands and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Aanvullende informatie

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact prof. Rienk Eelkema (r.eelkema@tudelft.nl).

Sollicitatieprocedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 26 October 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

CV
Motivational letter

You can address your application to prof. Rienk Eelkema.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate can 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.
As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security. Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.