PhD Position in Physical Chemistry: Utrecht University is offering a PhD position focused on biosensor innovation utilizing colorful liquid crystals. This project aims to develop fast, affordable, sensitive, and specific biosensors through the optical responses of chiral liquid crystals to target biomolecules.
PhD Position in Physical Chemistry – Biosensing Using Colourful Liquid Crystals
Designation
PhD Candidate
Research Area
Physical Chemistry, Biosensing, Soft Matter, Nanotechnology
Location
Wageningen University, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification
Candidates must possess several or all of the following qualifications:
- MSc degree (or equivalent) in (bio)physics, soft matter, nanotechnology, physical chemistry, or a related field.
- Strong affinity for interdisciplinary research and ability to explore new areas.
- Good communication and presentation skills.
- Excellent command of the English language (C1 level).
- Prior experience in liquid crystals, microfluidics, microscopy, image analysis, programming, and coding is a plus.
Job Description
The selected candidate will engage in an interdisciplinary project involving:
- Imaging amphiphile assemblies at the interface of cholesteric liquid crystals using stimulated emission depletion microscopy.
- Analyzing lipid dynamics at the interface with varying chemical characteristics and lipid populations.
- Developing lithographic and microfluidic techniques to shape liquid crystals into stable thin films and emulsions.
- Studying the structure of cholesteric liquid crystals using combined polarization and fluorescence imaging methods.
- Examining functionalized lipids on cholesteric liquid crystals to construct an ELISA-type biosensor.
The position offers an 18-month contract with a potential extension for a total of four years upon satisfactory assessment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply via the ‘apply now’ button on the Utrecht University website, including:
- A motivation letter.
- A curriculum vitae (CV) including the contact details of at least two referees.
For inquiries regarding the position, contact Dr. Lisa Tran at l.tran@uu.nl. For questions about the application procedure, email science.recruitment@uu.nl.
Last Date for Application
28 April 2025
