• Are you enthusiastic about advanced scattering and microscopy tools?
• Do you want to contribute to the protein transition?
• Are you interested in self-assembly, engineered proteins and nanoparticles?
• Are you passionate about science and keen to interact with others?

Job Description

In the consortium 'Animal-free milk proteins' which involves many companies, Wageningen University and Eindhoven University of Technology, we aim to create large colloidal particles called casein micelles from caseins which are not derived from cow milk. The consortium focuses through various parallel subprojects on 1) production of the right caseins by yeast, 2) reconstitution of casein micelles from these caseins, 3) the physical properties of these reconstituted caseins, 4) cheese preparation from the reconstituted casein micelles and investigation of casein digestibility, 5) social aspects of this novel way of producing milk, and 6) the economic feasibility and sustainability of this process. In this project you will use scattering, electron and super-resolution microscopy tools to develop strategies to reconstitute casein micelles upon co-assembly of various yeast-derived caseins. You will study the (dis)assembly pathways, size, shape, stability and other properties of the reconstituted micelles. Our aim is to develop a versatile approach to assemble from the individual, animal-free milk proteins casein micelles with a tailored composition, dimensions, morphology and stability, so that these hydrocolloids can be used to prepare dairy products like cheese.

• PhD in physical chemistry, soft matter, experimental (bio)physics, or related discipline. Experience with self-assembly, (milk) proteins, scattering tools, and super-resolution microscopy. Knowledge of food science is preferred.
• Ability to conduct high quality academic research, demonstrated by an outstanding PhD thesis and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong motivation to do excellent, original, fundamental research.
• Excellent mastering of the English language, good communication and leadership skills. Note that there is no Dutch language requirement.
• Independent and goal-oriented scientist. Team player and able to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international context.

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:

• A full-time employment for 1 year initially with possibility to extend by 1 year.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (monthly salary gross min. € 3.877,- and max. € 5.090,-).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• 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.
• 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.
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities
• Collaborative opportunities with leading experts in the field
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.