"PhD Position EnzIm2Flow - Engineering Targeted Enzyme Immobilization for Optimal Conversion and Product Recovery Using Flow Chemistry"

Vacancy number

TUD05553

Job Description:

A sustainable chemical industry that relies less on fossil resources requires new methods to convert renewable resources like vegetable oils into useful compounds. Oleate hydratases are enzymes that efficiently add water to fatty acids to produce hydroxyl fatty acids, which are important in the polymer and cosmetic industries. However, commercial use of this enzyme has been challenging 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, focuses on using the enzyme in a controlled and optimized continuous flow process, where it is immobilized to increase stability and efficiency.

As a PhD student in biocatalysis, you will conduct fundamental, application-inspired research in biocatalysis and enzyme engineering as a key experimental approach within the EnzIm2Flow project. Your work will involve using engineered enzymes in novel targeted enzyme immobilization approaches, studying the phase behavior of fatty acids as enzyme substrates and products, and developing novel biocatalytic flow processes.

The project is a collaboration between Dr. Hagedoorn and Prof. Hanefeld in Delft. Their research on the fundamental understanding and application of enzymes forms the basis for applying enzymes in industrial processes. You will have access to world-class facilities and work alongside leading scientists passionate about green chemistry and sustainability.

Requirements:

• An MSc degree in Life Sciences, (Bio)Chemistry, Biocatalysis, or a related field.
• Experience in (bio)organic chemistry.
• Sound knowledge of organic chemistry, biochemistry, and biocatalysis.
• English proficiency at a level required for interacting with others, participating in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, writing scientific articles and a final thesis, and sharing research results. Proficiency in Dutch is a plus. For more details, please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Conditions of Employment:

• Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment, initially with a 1.5-year contract and an official go/no-go progress assessment within 15 months. An additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years will be provided if performance requirements are met.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €2,770 per month in the first year to €3,539 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate, you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School, which offers an inspiring research environment, excellent supervision, academic staff, and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Program focuses on developing transferable, discipline-related, and research skills.
• TU Delft offers a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
• For international applicants, TU Delft provides the Coming to Delft Service, which assists with relocation and settling in the Netherlands. The service also includes a Dual Career Program for partners and organizes events to expand your social network.
• From 1 September next, a salary increase of 3.7% will apply due to a Collective Agreement amendment, with an additional 1% increase on 1 January 2025. Employees employed on 1 September 2024 will also receive a one-off payment of €300 gross based on full-time employment.

TU Delft:

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations, known for pioneering Dutch waterworks and biotech innovations. It is a top international university combining science, engineering, and design to address challenges in energy, climate, mobility, health, and digital society. TU Delft fosters diversity and inclusivity, and aims to have a positive global impact through technology.

Department:

Faculty of Applied Sciences: With over 1,000 employees and 3,400 students, the Faculty focuses on key enabling technologies like quantum and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology, and materials for energy storage and conversion. The faculty aims to provide solutions to significant 21st-century problems through fundamental and applied research.

Department of Biotechnology: Engages in leading education programs and provides a stimulating research environment combining fundamental science, engineering, and design for biotechnological process innovations. The Department covers biocatalysis, bioprocess engineering, environmental biotechnology, industrial microbiology, and biotechnology and society.

Additional Information:

For more information about this role, please contact Dr. Peter-Leon Hagedoorn, Associate Professor, at plhagedoorn@tudelft.nl. For queries about the recruitment process, contact Natascha Lock, HR Advisor, at ntvanofferen@tudelft.nl.

Application Procedure:

Interested candidates should apply no later than 31 August 2024 via the application button and include the following documents:

• A two-page motivation letter explaining why you would like to work with us, detailing your research interest and relevant experience.
• Degree transcripts.
• An up-to-date CV.
• Names and contact information of relevant references (we will not contact references without your consent).

Please note:

• A pre-employment screening may be part of the selection procedure.
• Apply online; applications sent by email or post will not be processed.
• Do not contact us for unsolicited services.