The Faculty of Science Leiden and the Leiden Institute of Chemistry are looking for a

Postdoctoral researcher in supramolecular biomaterials (1.0 fte; 12 months)

The biochemical and biophysical cues of the stem cell environment that act in a concerted and spatiotemporal manner lead to the formation of the 200 cell types and organs of the human body; how this precisely occurs remains unclear, but it is necessary to guide their production for use in the biomedical area. Standard differentiation protocols in vitro mimic known stages in development by the timed addition of biochemical cues on 2D substrates, however these protocols lack the complexity of the 3D natural extracellular matrix (ECM), with its mechanical character that evolves in time. Supramolecular materials can recapitulate the structural and dynamic character of the ECM being based on non-covalent interactions, however their mechanically soft character remains challenging to mimic the properties of adult tissues. In this project, we will study supramolecular biomaterials whose properties can be mechanically modified in both space and time using external triggers.

Work and profile
The candidate may either focus on the development of new supramolecular materials in this area or stem cell (3D) culture and differentiation in advanced 3D in vitro models using developed materials within the group depending on their expertise.

Selection criteria

• PhD degree in chemistry or life sciences
• Experience in organic synthesis and/or (3D) cell culture
• Excellent proficiency in English
• Ability to work as a team player in a multidisciplinary environment
• Initiative, creativity and an independent working attitude are highly valued

Description of organisation and terms of employment
The position starts preferably by November 1st. We offer a position for 10 to 12 months. You will be appointed in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The salary ranges from € 4.020,- to € 5.278,- gross per month (pay scale 10).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information, see the website.

Faculty
The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelors’ and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and over 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

University
Leiden University is one of Europe’s leading international research universities.

Thanks to its committed and inspired employees, the university enjoys a leading role in academic research and education. Leiden also scores very well every year in prominent rankings. This means that, to maintain our position, the bar is set very high. Regardless of the work you do at our university, you are always encouraged to broaden your horizons, develop your talents and reach your full potential. Will you become our newest colleague?

Do you have questions about this position? Please contact Dr. Roxanne Kieltyka, Associate Professor, r.e.kieltyka@chem.leidenuniv.nl. For more information about the recruitment process please contact Ties Elkerbout, Management Assistant t.k.elkerbout@lic.leidenuniv.nl.

You can find more information about the faculty of Science at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/about-faculty-of-science. For more information about working at Leiden university please visit https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at.

Are you enthusiastic about this vacancy? We are looking forward to get to know you. You can apply until September 30th using the application button below.