Summary
TU Delft (Faculty of Applied Sciences, Klijn Lab) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work at the intersection of microbial fermentation technology and real-time data analytics. This 1-year position is specifically funded to diversify the scientific research community by supporting candidates with non-linear career paths (e.g., re-entering research after a career break, transitioning from industry, or switching scientific disciplines). The project focuses on integrating commercial spectroscopic sensors into fermentation processes to monitor microbial cells in real-time, coupled with funded professional development through BioTech Delft courses and membership in the Dutch Biotechnology Association.
Postdoc: Integrating Spectroscopic Process Analytical Technology for Fermentation Process
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc)
Key Job Overview
| Field | Details |
| Institution | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) |
| Faculty / Department | Faculty of Applied Sciences (Klijn Lab) |
| Position Type / Duration | Temporary / 1 Year |
| Working Hours | 36 – 40 hours per week (1.0 FTE) |
| Salary Range | €3,706 – €5,760 gross per month (Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities) |
| Vacancy ID | 3674 |
| Location | Delft, South Holland, Netherlands |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2026 |
Research Area
- Biotechnology & Bioprocess Engineering
- Process Analytical Technology (PAT)
- Spectroscopy & Sensor Integration
- Microbial Fermentation & Real-Time Data Analytics / Signal Processing
Location
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
Faculty of Applied Sciences
2628 CD Delft, Netherlands
Eligibility & Qualifications
Scientific Experience (Guidelines)
- Background in Microbial Biotechnology (including fermentation technology) or related discipline.
- Experience with (Bio)chemical analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC, optical density, spectroscopy).
- Competence in Data Analysis; programming skills (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB) are considered a significant advantage.
- A PhD in a relevant field (or equivalent research experience).
Transferable Skills & Mindset
- Openness to learn, develop, and adapt to new techniques.
- Proactive mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities.
- Ability to distill, interpret, and communicate complex research findings.
- Enthusiasm for a fast-paced, multidisciplinary, and collaborative research environment.
- Candidates with non-linear career trajectories (career breaks, industry transitions, discipline shifts) are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Description
- Sensor Integration & Experimental Work: Integrate a commercial spectroscopic sensor into fermentation systems to gather high-quality real-time microbial cell measurement data.
- Signal Processing & Data Analytics: Develop and implement computational workflows to analyze spectroscopic signals, bridge data streams, and support automated control strategies.
- Consortium Collaboration: Work within an interdisciplinary team comprising postdocs, PhD candidates, and technicians specializing in microbial physiology, bioprocess engineering, applied optics, and data science.
- Professional Development: Complete two BioTech Delft Advanced Courses, participate in Dutch Biotechnology Association activities, and present findings at biotechnology conferences.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official TU Delft vacancy portal (applications via email or post will not be processed).
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Maximum 2 A4 pages.
- Motivational Cover Letter: Maximum 1.5 A4 pages, addressed to Dr. Marieke Klijn.Your cover letter MUST explicitly address the following two points:
- Your motivation to apply for a position supporting a non-linear career path and how this project fits into the next steps of your career.
- Your selection of two Advanced Courses offered by BioTech Delft and an explanation of how these courses will help you achieve your career goals.
Note: Documents exceeding the page limits or lacking the mandatory cover letter requirements will not be considered.
Contacts for Inquiries:
- Position & Selection Inquiries: Dr. Marieke Klijn (
M.E.Klijn@tudelft.nl) - Application Procedure Inquiries: Kawieta Ramautar (
K.G.Ramautar@tudelft.nl)
Last Date to Apply
31 August 2026








