We are developing a platform for label-free characterization of single (bio)molecules and nanoparticles, bringing the lab-on-a-chip concept to the ultimate single-molecule resolution. Your research will be focused on the engineering of nanogap electrodes for trapping/actuation of single biomolecules and nanoparticles using inhomogeneous AC electric fields and optical readout from the traps. Are you passionate about this research? The PhD will involve a lot of cleanroom nanofabrication followed by complex optical measurements, so that must be something that you are eager to master and to spend time on (in the cleanroom and optics lab). We have all you need to execute your ambitious research: cleanroom facilities, optical, electronic and chemical labs and most importantly lots of fun people to work with.

• You are a very enthusiastic, positive and hardworking researcher and highly motivated about this project;
• You have, or will shortly acquire, a MSc degree in the field of Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Nanotechnology, Bionanoscience or a related field;
• Previous experience in nanofabrication, advanced optics and/or programming is highly encouraged, but not obligatory;
• You are a creative person and have excellent analytical and communication skills;
• You have good team spirit and like to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment;
• You are proficient in English.

• As a PhD candidate at UT, you will be appointed to a full-time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year, within a very stimulating and exciting scientific environment;
• The University offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues;
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU);
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 2.901,- (first year) to € 3.707,- (fourth year);
• There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme;
• The flexibility to work (partially) from home;
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A fulltime employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus
• A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid);
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision;
• We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff.

Are you interested in being part of our team? Please submit your application before February 15, 2025, via the ‘Apply now’ button below and include:

• A motivation letter, emphasizing your specific interest and motivation to apply for a PhD position in our group.
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae including your publications, awards, and working experience. Your CV should demonstrate the scope of your work and education and indicate a good fit with the stated requirements for the position.
• An academic transcript of BSc and MSc education, including grades.
• A short description of your MSc thesis/final project.
• References (contact information) of two scientific staff members (one of whom should be the supervisor of your MSc thesis/final project) who are willing to provide a recommendation letter at our request.
• A note on using LLMs to assist in writing your motivation letter. Consider this fact: these days > 90% of the motivation letters are written using LLMs and most of them will not be shortlisted due to being similar to the other motivation letters written by an LLM. You can surely use LLMs for feedback on the grammar and structure of your application, but be mindful of giving it too much leeway in editing your documents, it may harm your chances of being hired.

For further information about this position, please contact Sergii Pud via s.pud@utwente.nl.