Contribute to pioneering research in the chemistry of synthetic cells for the future. We are looking for two postdoctoral researchers to develop synthetic cells capable of producing valuable products from waste streams.

About the Company

You will join Prof. Wilhelm Huck's group at the Institute for Molecules and Materials (IMM). Our group consists of around seven postdoctoral researchers and 15 PhD candidates, working in an internationally oriented, multidisciplinary, and diverse environment. We focus on complex molecular systems and are part of the Dutch EVOLF consortium, integrating AI with high-throughput experiments to create living cells.

The Role

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will focus on the bottom-up construction of synthetic cells that sustain protein production. This challenging task is complicated by the lack of a clear engineering blueprint and the experimental limitations posed by the number of ingredients involved. You will develop a design-build-test-learn cycle, utilizing high-throughput experiments and active learning to achieve synthetic cells with desired properties. Your work will involve integrating liquid handling robots and high-speed microscopy with AI and machine learning to produce stable liposomes from libraries of novel phospholipids, which will encapsulate cell-free gene expression systems. You will also optimize the yield and robustness of the cell-free expression system, ultimately creating synthetic cells that can degrade plastic waste and convert it into valuable biomaterials.

Responsibilities

• Develop synthetic cells for sustained protein production.
• Create a design-build-test-learn cycle using high-throughput experiments.
• Integrate liquid handling robots and microscopy with AI and machine learning.
• Optimize the yield and robustness of cell-free expression systems.
• Collaborate with consortium partners to utilize synthetic cells for waste degradation.

Requirements

• PhD in synthetic biology, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• Practical experience with cell-free gene expression systems and/or liposomes.
• Interest in liquid handling robots, Python, and Bayesian optimization.
• Strong team player in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Proven publication record.
• Proficient in spoken and written English.

What We Offer

• A temporary employment contract for 1 year, with the possibility of extension for 1 or 2 additional years.
• Salary based on scale 10, dependent on education and relevant work experience, calculated for a 38-hour work week.
• 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• Additional vacation days: choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave for full-time employment, instead of the statutory 20 days.

Additional Employment Conditions

We prioritize good employment practices at Radboud University. You will benefit from flexible working hours, various leave arrangements, and the option to work from home. You can customize part of your employment conditions, such as exchanging income for extra leave days or receiving reimbursement for a sports subscription. A solid pension plan is also included, along with opportunities for personal development and training.

Application Process

You can apply only via the button below, addressing your application letter to Prof. Wilhelm Huck. The application form will specify the required documents. We look forward to your application.

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews scheduled during the recruitment period. You will receive feedback and information about the follow-up process shortly. If a suitable candidate is found before the closing date, the vacancy will be closed. Interview slots will be arranged with shortlisted applicants, with a preferred start date of November 1, 2026.

If you are currently employed at Radboud University and have questions about internal applications, please refer to our internal application guidelines.