On the one hand, antibiotic resistance remains a growing issue in modern society, propagated in part by the misuse of antibiotics. On the other hand, bacterial infections have caused millions of deaths and remain a major healthcare challenge. Rising antibiotic resistance, driven by misuse and a lack of new antibiotics, threatens a post-antibiotic era. The Microsystems section (TU Eindhoven), the Catharina Hospital and ShanX Medtech BV (SXM, NL) are developing and validating a chemical-based novel diagnostic tool to help doctors prescribe optimal and personalized antibiotic treatments to reduce antibiotic misuse. This project will focus on the expansion and optimization of the chemical assay, giving you the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient treatment and outcomes.

This post-doc position focusses on the development of the chemical assay found within the microwells of the SXM test cartridges. Armed with a multi-disciplinary background - that combines knowledge of microbiology, bacterial processes, basic chemistry, microfluidics, and data science - you will explore methods by which the current assay can be improved, expanded, and utilized for novel purposes. Herein, you will design novel assay compositions, generate an experimental proof-of-principle therewith, and determine its overall performance through data analysis.

Embedding

The postdoc researcher will be embedded in the Microsystems research section at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, headed by prof.dr.ir. Jaap den Toonder, with frequent commuting to ShanX Medtech premises.

We seek a motivated researcher with a PhD and a core background in either Chemical Biology, Microbiology, or closely related subject. Requirements:

• Demonstratable knowledge of metabolic processes and/or metabolite detection is preferred.
• Proficiency in chemical principles and fluorescence measurements.
• The ability to develop mathematical models and analyze large data sets, preferably with experience using machine learning or artificial intelligence based models is preferred
• Capacity to work in a multidisciplinary group, communicating both with university colleagues and liaisons from SXM
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written), strong project management skills, including the ability to complete tasks on schedule, and a proactive, independent work ethic.

We offer a meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• An exciting job in a dynamic work environment and a multidisciplinary consortium.
• A full time appointment for 2 years by Eindhoven University of Technology (www.tue.nl/en), with an anticipated start date 1 February 2025.
• A gross monthly salary between €4,060 and €5,331 (on a full-time basis), based on knowledge and experience, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.