Postdoc enzyme engineering - EnzIm2Flow - engineering targeted enzyme immobilization for optimal conversion and product recovery using flow chemistry

A sustainable chemical industry that relies less on fossil resources requires new ways to convert renewable resources like vegetable oils into useful compounds. Oleate hydratases are enzymes that can do this job very efficiently by adding water to fatty acids to produce hydroxyl fatty acids, which are important in the polymer and cosmetic industry. Until now using this enzyme commercially has been difficult due to the physical properties of the hydroxyl fatty acids and the enzyme's low stability. The EnzIm2Flow project funded by NWO's Open Technology program is focussed on using the enzyme in a controlled and optimized continuous flow process, where it's immobilized to increase its stability and efficiency.

As a Postdoc enzyme engineering at TU Delft you will perform fundamental, application-inspired research in the area of biocatalysis and engineering as a key experimental approach as part of the EnzIm2Flow project. Specifically you will engineer enzymes to improve their robustness and for novel immobilization approaches and structurally and functionally characterize the engineered enzymes. The engineering approaches will include the incorporation of non-canonical aminoacids. You will be the backbone of the project, supporting the activities of your team.

The project is a collaboration between Dr. Hagedoorn and prof. Hanefeld in Delft. The Biocatalyis Section has an excellent reputation in its field with state-of-the-art facilities and leading scientists in the areas of biocatalysis, enzymology, organic chemistry and molecular imaging. Our biocatalysis community has a supportive atmosphere with regular meetings, seminars and social activities. We’re confident you’ll soon feel at home with peers who are just as passionate as you are about enzymes.

You have an academic background, a pioneering mindset and a strong affinity with research related to (metal) enzymes. With your curious mind, you’re highly motivated to carry out experiments related to the topic, report on your findings and present your results in scientific papers and at conferences. Using your excellent communication skills, you play a proactive role in an international team. Not easily stressed by the fickleness of the unknown, you will put your organisational skills to good use to drive the practical aspects of the project.

You also have:

• A PhD in (Bio)Chemistry, Biocatalysis, or a related subject.
• Experience in protein engineering and biochemical analysis
• Sound knowledge of enzymology, biochemistry and (bio)organic chemistry

• A good command of English, because you will be working in an international environment.

• Fixed-term contract: three years
• Salary scale 10 (€ 3.226,00 - € 5.090,00). Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
• For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

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 and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.
Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty of Applied Sciences
With more than 1,000 employees, including 135 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,400 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we train students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers and science communicators.

Department of Biotechnology

The Department of Biotechnology engages in internationally-leading education programmes and offers a stimulating research environment in the biosciences that combines fundamental science, engineering, and design, all directed towards biotechnological process innovations. The Department covers the areas of biocatalysis, bioprocess engineering, environmental biotechnology, industrial microbiology, and biotechnology and society. The Department harbours excellent laboratory facilities and infrastructure.

 To apply, please complete the application form [link] and add the following documents to your application:

1. Motivation letter.
2. Detailed CV.
3. List of courses and grades at Master’s and Bachelor’s level.
4. Publication list
5. At least three relevant publications or reports that demonstrate your writing ability.

Please apply before 31-08-2024.

After the first selection, video interviews will be held, followed by interviews at TU Delft.