Modern information-based society largely relies on trusted information storage from long-term digital archiving to embedding information into products. DNA is a revolutionary future storage medium for such diverse applications as it offers sustainable and robust long-term information storage at extraordinary information density. DNA will also never become obsolete. However, long-term DNA archival storage is still very expensive and complex to integrate into a digital society.

In DiDAX, you will apply new approaches to DNA storage based on novel encoding technologies and decoding algorithms with project partners (ETH Zurich, Technion, TU Munich) and develop new embedding technologies leveraging biophysics, engineered living materials and additive manufacturing. We will demonstrate end-to-end PoC systems for reduced-cost archival storage, in-product information storage in new products/applications as well as DNA based authentication protocols.

Your position is based in the Shaping Matter lab, an interdisciplinary research group in the Aerospace Structures & Materials (ASM) department (www.shapingmatterlab.com). We are inspired by how Nature utilises hierarchy at multiple length scales to structure relatively weak building blocks into complex shapes with outstanding mechanical performance. In this project you will harness self-assembly during additive manufacturing to fabricate sustainable bio-inspired DNA embedded lightweight structures with interesting functional (living) properties at application relevant scales. In particular, you will focused on bio-inspired capsulation approaches to protect the DNA from application and processing stresses. You will work alongside a postdoctoral researcher that will focus on applications from a design perspective. 

You hold a PhD degree in a natural sciences or engineering discipline, with your thesis focused on biochemistry, DNA data storage, additive manufacturing or a related discipline. You have a proven scientific track record through the achievements in your research. You are proficient in meticulous lab work, programming and skilled in turning an idea into a prototype implementation. You enjoy pioneering new ideas, linking results with physical experiments and thrive in an interactive, ambitious, collaborative research environment. Further, you have good English communication skills and a strong drive for academic excellence.

Fixed-term contract: 18 months.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is one of the world’s most highly ranked (and most comprehensive) research, education and innovation communities devoted entirely to aerospace engineering. More than 200 science staff, around 270 PhD candidates and close to 3000 BSc and MSc students apply aerospace engineering disciplines to address the global societal challenges that threaten us today, climate change without doubt being the most important. Our focal subjects: sustainable aerospace, big data and artificial intelligence, bio-inspired engineering and smart instruments and systems. Working at the faculty means working together. With partners in other faculties, knowledge institutes, governments and industry, both aerospace and non-aerospace. Working in field labs and innovation hubs on our university campus and beyond. 

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.