"Postdoctoral Research Engineer: Innovative Engineering and Automation for Single Cell Metabolomics"

Job Summary

The Metabolomics and Analytics Center (MAC) at the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR) seeks to hire a Postdoctoral Research Engineer to develop and engineer an innovative single cell analyzer using an automated sample handling platform and hanging droplet evaporator for processing single cells, exosome samples, and other biomass-restricted samples for high-resolution mass spectrometric analysis. This project is part of the Biotech Booster program to accelerate commercialization of innovative biotechnology research, aiming to create a platform for clinical and drug research, such as predicting responses in cancer immune therapy, and to prepare for a new start-up company.

Responsibilities

1. Engineer an automated analyzer platform to measure metabolites, lipids, and proteins in individual cells using high-resolution mass spectrometry. 2. Develop applications demonstrating the relevance of single cell metabolomics for the efficacy of cancer immune therapy. 3. Prepare the launch of a start-up for this innovative single cell analysis platform, including developing showcases and ideas for business implementation.

Qualifications and Requirements

Highly motivated, enthusiastic, and proactive research engineer with a passion for innovation and strong interdisciplinary skills. PhD degree in Instrument or Analytical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field. Industry experience in engineering is a plus. Experience with bio-microfluidics engineering (Computer-Aided Design and micromilling), biosensing, and data analysis. Additional experience in reliability testing, quality control, programming, circuit board design, and/or cleanroom manufacturing is advantageous. Entrepreneurial spirit; experience with industrial applications of analytical systems with an end-user-focused mindset is preferred. Curious, creative, with good team spirit, ability to work independently, and excellent communication skills. Proficient in spoken and written English.

What the Employer Offers

A full-time position for initially one year, with possible extension for another year based on performance. Salary ranges from €3,546 to €5,538 gross per month (pay scale 10, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities), plus benefits including holiday bonus (8%), end-of-year bonus (8.3%), training, and career development opportunities. The position is at the Faculty of Science, Leiden University, in a dynamic international environment.