PhD position in Biophysics at the University of Twente

Join the NBP group, a multidisciplinary team at the University of Twente, where physics, chemistry and biology converge. We are dedicated to understanding intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and their roles in biological processes. Our focus is on the study of IDPs in the context of neurodegenerative diseases, using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. We offer a collaborative, supportive, and professional working environment, encouraging interactions among our diverse team members, including PhD students, research technicians, and principal investigators.
Background and project aim:
Protein aggregation plays a significant role in many neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. The onset and progression of such diseases depends on a series of rare molecular events that are not yet well understood.
The aim of this project is to identify and study these rare events at the single-molecule level within cells. To achieve this, the project will focus heavily on advancing state-of-the-art single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy techniques, as well as single-molecule data analysis. Ultimately, these new developments should enable the monitoring of these poorly understood events.
Through this project, deeper insights into the molecular key players and mechanisms involved in triggering and spreading protein aggregation, as well as the factors that counteract or reverse this process will be gained. Initially, you will examine these rare events in reconstituted systems and then in a cellular context. A better understanding of these processes may lead to new prevention and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.

Requirements:

We are looking for a candidate with a MSc degree in Physics or Physical Chemistry who has experience in studying biomacromolecules.

The ideal candidate should have:

• Experience with (single molecule) microscopy / spectroscopy techniques.
• A deep interest in biomolecular interactions, and molecular disease aspects.
• An enthusiastic and highly motivated research attitude.

Salary Benefits:

• A full-time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year, and the flexibility to work (partially) from home.
• 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 € 2.770,- (first year) to € 3.539 ,- (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.
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full-time 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.

40 hours per week

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