Our EVOLF community is growing. We are continuously on the lookout for PhD students and postdocs to join us on our scientific journey.
Career development and diversity
EVOLF will train ~90 PhD students and postdocs in cross-disciplinary skills and ethical research. We provide specialized training in synthetic-cell research, RRI, IP, and entrepreneurship, and offer an International Exchange Program for lab visits. Our inclusive recruitment and supportive environment ensure talent retention, with a diversity coordinator managing inclusion efforts and family-friendly international meetings.
Come join one of the following projects:
Please note; if you apply for multiple positions; please inform us by mentioning this in your cover letters.
Cell shape deformation and division driven by CDV proteins
Supervisor: Cees Dekker, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Biophysics, PURE
-
We aim to reconstitute the intriguing archaeal ‘CDV’ proteins in liposomes to form a filamentous ring that contracts and hence deforms a liposome from a sphere- to a dumbbell shape. Using biophysical tools (fluorescence, AFM, TEM,..), we will study the CdvABC proteins from an archaeum that lives at room temperature. We will study their membrane binding, sequential (dis)assembly, and propensity to form contractile rings in liposomes. The CDV genes will also be encoded on a genome that is expressed in the PURE system. We search an applicant with a biophysics background.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Until that time, please check the following website for more opportunities at the Cees Dekker lab. https://ceesdekkerlab.nl/come-join-us/
Value based design strategies
Supervisor: Lotte Asveld, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Humanities Society
-
The development of a synthetic cell will produce groundbreaking knowledge on our understanding of life, which may lead to promising new applications, but may also give rise to novel risks. Therefore this knowledge should be produced in a responsible way. This project aims to align the development of the synthetic cell with relevant societal values, such as safety and accountability. The prospective candidate will develop an approach to integrate social and ethical considerations into design choices made in the laboratory, thereby opening novel avenues for responsible, fundamental research.
-
Conceptual understanding of life
Supervisor: Lotte Asveld, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Humanities Society
-
What is life? How do living systems differ from non-living ones? Can we create living cells from lifeless molecules? Through building a synthetic cell, the Evolf consortium will produce new insights into these questions. This project aims to develop a novel robust, comprehensive conceptualization of life, building on new insights derived from the Evolf consortium, but also taking into account results from study of the literature on the philosophy of biology, interviews with stakeholders such as religious groups and experts from adjacent academic fields.
-
Guidelines for Responsible Research and Innovation
Supervisor: Lotte Asveld, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords: Humanities
-
The development of a synthetic cell is expected to lead to unprecedented insights in living organisms and potential revolutionary applications. This calls for careful societal consideration and responsible governance. Novel risks may emerge, both social and physical. Who will benefit from this new knowledge? How to agree on the responsible use of this knowledge on a global scale? This project aims to develop an unique and tailored framework for responsible innovation of the synthetic cell, while also addressing the challenge of designing global governance mechanisms.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Developing an acoustofluidic platform for automated sorting of synthetic cells
Supervisor: Sabina Caneva, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Microfluidics, surface acoustic wave devices, microfabrication, fluorescence imaging, liposomes.
-
Smart microfluidics play a key role in achieving controlled transport, selection and on-the-fly sorting of cells. You will develop a platform that combines (fluorescence) imaging capabilities with travelling surface acoustic wave actuation, to automatically sort liposomes via spatially-tunable and non-invasive sound fields. We look for applicants with expertise in microfluidics/microfabrication and electronics, who have a keen interest in novel and interdisciplinary, biotech research.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Build and evolve a synthetic genome-encoded minimal metabolic network in E. coli
Supervisor: Nico Claassens , WUR
PhD position
Keywords: minimal synthetic metabolism, adaptive laboratory evolution, energy metabolism, lipid biosynthesis
-
A bottom-up minimal synthetic cell requires a minimal metabolic network to supply energy (ATP, NAD(P)H) and proton motive force) to run the cell, as well as phospholipid biosynthesis. In this project we will design, build and test genome-encoded minimal modules for these metabolic systems. The systems will be optimized for functionality and integration by laboratory evolution approaches in dedicated E. coli strains.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Build, scramble and evolve synthetic, minimal genome-encoded modules in E. coli
Supervisor: Nico Claassens , WUR
PhD position
Keywords: gene scrambling, synthetic genomes, minimal modules, adaptive laboratory evolution, E. coli
-
A bottom-up minimal synthetic cell requires genome-encoded minimal modules for key functions in the cells. In this project we will develop a system to scramble and evolve more minimal synthetic modules in E. coli. We will develop and test this system for smaller and large synthetic modules to support key functionalities for a cell.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Optimize and evolve module co-functionality in E. coli
Supervisor: Nico Claassens , WUR
Postdoc position
Keywords: module co-functionality, synthetic genomes, adaptive laboratory evolution, E. coli
-
A bottom-up minimal synthetic cell requires genome-encoded minimal modules that work together to support several essential functionalities of the cell. Often compability and resource-competition issues prevent optimal co-functionality of different synthetic modules. In this project we will combine several key minimal modules for a synthetic cell in an E. coli strain that is made dependent on the co-functionality of these modules. We will use laboratory evolution techniques to improve the co-functionality of these modules and study what features are key for module cooperation.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Can macromolecule synthesis help drive vesicle deformation and division?
Supervisor: Timon Idema, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Machine learning, Analytical modelling, molecular dynamics simulations
-
Artificial cells need to be able to grow and symmetrically divide. To do so, the membrane that forms the cell boundary needs to undergo a major deformation, while at the same time the content of the cell must be duplicated and divided. We will study if and how these two processes can mutually enhance each other. We will employ a combination of analytical modeling, molecular dynamics simulations and machine-learning techniques to find optimal conditions for an integrated system to grow and divide.
-
Building a robust negative feedback oscillator that temporally controls the growth and division cycle of the synthetic cell
Supervisor: Julia Kamenz, RUG
PhD position
Keywords: Biochemistry, directed evolution, computational modelling, protein purification
-
For a synthetic cell to continuously divide, cell growth and cell division have to be tightly regulated and temporally separated. In this project, we will combine protein biochemistry, directed evolution and mathematical modelling in order to develop a synthetic oscillator and the necessary control modules to drive these periodic cycles of cell growth and division. The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about building a synthetic cell, has excellent skills in biochemistry and protein purification, an engineering mindset and a solid foundation in programming and computational modelling.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Coupling sensing to intracellular organization for signal-induced polarization in synthetic cells
Supervisor: Liedewij Laan, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Fluorescence microscopy, Computer simulations, signal-induced polarization
-
This project aims to optimize the dynamic conversion of external signals into internal organization in synthetic cells. You will investigate how to couple a transmembrane sensor to the Cdc42-based regulatory module by varying connector protein concentration and interaction strength. Using techniques from the Laan, Ganzinger, and Koenderink Labs, you will encapsulate the regulatory module in vesicles, integrate signal-sensing components, and analyze the system’s responsiveness through fluorescence microscopy and combined with computer simulations. Your work will enhance understanding of signal-induced polarization in synthetic cells.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Smart mapping of module function and robustness to facilitate module integration
Supervisor: Liedewij Laan, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Microfluidics, light microscopy, AI
-
This project aims to develop and use a high-throughput method to study how varying stoichiometry and concentrations in protein networks affect module function and robustness, using the Cdc42 regulatory module as a test case. The setup integrates microfluidics, light microscopy, and AI for real-time analysis, optimizing input concentrations on-the-fly. By mapping the effects of protein concentrations, the system will identify regimes of robustness and sensitivity. Experimental observations will be combined with theoretical models to uncover emergent properties and to find design rules for how to incorporate robustness in increasingly complex systems.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Integrating GTP Homeostasis and GTP Consumption Modules for Energy Stability in Synthetic Cells
Supervisor: Liedewij Laan, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords:
-
We are seeking an experimental post-doc to join a synthetic biology project focused on integrating GTP homeostasis with Cdc42 regulation. The successful candidate will work with the Poolman Lab (GTP production) and the Laan Lab (Cdc42 regulation). In close collaboration with various experts, you will investigate how to stably integrate metabolic energy producing and energy consuming modules in a synthetic cell, using DNA technology, microfluidics, imaging and network modelling. Experience in experimental biophysics and an appreciation of modeling are desirable; excitement about multidisciplinary team work is essential.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Energy metabolism and micrometer-size vesicles
Supervisor: Bert Poolman, RUG
Postdoc position
Keywords: ATP production, Energy, Electrochemical ion gradients
-
We aim to produce ATP, the general energy currency of the cell, in bacteria-size vesicles to meet metabolic rates required for growth of synthetic cells with doubling times of 1 day or faster. We will couple ATP production to the generation of electrochemical ion gradients (the other energy currency of living systems) and establish pH homeostasis
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Evolution of metabolic modules
Supervisor: Bert Poolman, RUG
PhD position
Keywords: ATP production, synthetic cell growth, protein synthesis
-
We will engineer and evolve the module for the production of ATP, the general energy currency of the cell, to obtain metabolic rates required for growth of synthetic cells with doubling times of 1 day or faster. We will couple ATP production to modules for ATP consumption such as protein synthesis.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Lipid translocation and membrane growth
Supervisor: Bert Poolman, RUG
PhD position
Keywords: de novo lipid synthesis, membrane growth
-
Cell growth requires membrane expansion through de novo lipid synthesis. We will identify, characterize and implement in synthetic cells proteins from a newly discovered family of bacterial lipid translocases. By coupling transbilayer distribution of lipids to lipid synthesis, genuine membrane growth will be achieved.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Metabolic complexity in the synthetic cell
Supervisor: Dirk Slotboom, RUG
PhD position
Keywords: metabolic pathways, enzymology, biochemistry, AI, protein scaffolds
-
To equip synthetic cells with multiple metabolic pathways, innovative reconstitution and organization methods are needed. In this project, we will explore protein scaffolds, membrane-bound and membrane-less compartments, rational and AI-based engineering to obtain efficient fluxes through multiple pathways in the same synthetic cell. This is an essential step in the integration of metabolic networks for an autonomously functional cell. The candidate will have a strong background in either enzymology or biochemistry.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Membrane protein insertion in the synthetic cell
Supervisor: Dirk Slotboom, RUG
Postdoc position
Keywords: Membrane protein insertion, biochemistry, reconstitution of signalling and metabolic pathways, synthetic cell
-
To equip synthetic cells with membrane-associated processes (such as solute transport), a membrane protein insertion machinery is needed, compatible with the in vitro reconstituted systems that we will engineer. The candidate will identify a minimal insertion machinery and optimize it for efficient insertion of functional transporters using biochemical and biophysical assays. The objective is to obtain functional metabolic routes with all components encoded in a synthetic genome. The candidate will have a strong background in either enzymology or biochemistry
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Synthetic in vesiculo glycolysis for ATP, NADH and amino acid provision
Supervisor: Matthias Heineman, RUG
Postdoc/ PhD position are invited to apply
Keywords: Glycolytis, mass spectrometry, enzymology, biochemistry
-
To equip synthetic cells with ATP, NADH and amino acids, we aim to establish a synthetic, bottom-up built glycolysis in vesicles. The aim of this project is to in vitro assemble – in a stepwise manner – a functional glycolytic pathway and to optimize it. To this end, high-end mass spectrometric analyses will be used as well as a mathematical model of glycolysis earlier developed in the group. The candidate will need to have a strong background in either enzymology or biochemistry or both.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Synthetic in vesiculo glycolysis for ATP, NADH and amino acid provision
Supervisor: Matthias Heineman, RUG
Postdoc/ PhD position are invited to apply
Keywords: Molecular biology, genetics, directed evolution
-
To equip synthetic cells with ATP, NADH and amino acids, we aim to establish a synthetic, bottom-up built glycolysis in vesicles. The aim of this project is to engineer a synthetic operon for this pathway and to optimize it through in vivo evolution. In a stepwise manner, we will build such synthetic operon on a plasmid and delete the respective genes on the E. coli chromosome. We will use evolution and targeted gene mutation strategies to optimize the plasmid-expressed pathway. The candidate will need to have a strong background in either molecular biology or genetics.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Advancing (mechano)sensing in synthetic cells through optimization of ion channels incorporation and activity in lipid bilayers
Supervisor: Marie- Eve Aubin- Tam, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords:
-
Would you like to monitor the activity of single mechanosensitive membrane channels being inserted into artificial cell membranes? This will be the focus of a PhD project that will use new microfluidics tools combined with cell-free protein synthesis. A microfluidics system with freestanding lipid bilayers will enable the electrical monitoring of ion channels while a mechanical load is directly applied. The knowledge generated by this project will contribute to making synthetic cells which are responsive to the environment.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Finding the molecular interactions that coordinate membrane synthesis with cell growth
Supervisor: Greg Bokinsky, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords:
-
How do bacteria avoid breaking open their membranes when they grow? Can we engineer synthetic cells that can balance growth with membrane synthesis? We seek an enthusiastic postdoc who will use structural biology and superresolution microscopy to identify the molecular interactions that regulate the speed at which bacteria build their membranes. The findings will guide the design of a membrane synthesis pathway capable of coordinating phospholipid synthesis with volume expansion within a synthetic cell.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Phospholipid membranes for synthetic cells: reconstituting fatty acid and phospholipid synthesis from soluble nutrients
Supervisor: Greg Bokinsky, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords:
-
Can we make phospholipid membranes for synthetic cells? We seek an enthusiastic PhD candidate who will reconstitute bacterial fatty acid and phospholipid synthesis using in vitro transcription/translation. The student will combine metabolic modelling with in vitro gene expression to build a pathway that will convert simple nutrients into phospholipid membranes for synthetic cells. The student will capitalize upon our unique LCMS-based analytical tools to ensure success. Prior training in synthetic biology and/or metabolic modelling is highly desirable.
-
Developing a smart, high-resolution 3D microscopy platform to evolve synthetic cells
Supervisor: Kristin Grußmayer, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords:
-
Smart, high-resolution microscopy platforms play a key role in information-efficient high-throughput imaging to enable biological discovery. This project will focus on developing strategies for fast, quantitative, 3D multimodal imaging combined with real-time machine learning for identification and tracking of synthetic cell phenotypes. Coupled with microfluidics for controlled transport and sorting of cells, this platform will provide the central technology to evolve synthetic cell modules. Interested in advanced microscopy and AI-based image analysis? Curious about interdisciplinary, bottom-up biophysics research? We are looking for you!
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Developing an AI model for optimizing transcription and translation in the PURE system
Supervisor: Wilhelm Huck, Radboud University Nijmegen
PhD position
Keywords:
-
Synthetic cells will run on a synthetic genome, requiring control over gene expression levels across the genome. In this project we will fully map the relationship between DNA sequence and protein levels and train AI models to predict gene expression levels in synthetic cells.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Developing an AI model for optimizing transcription and translation in the PURE system
Supervisor: Wilhelm Huck, Radboud University Nijmegen
Posdoc position
Keywords:
-
Deep learning methods to express gene expression levels in synthetic cells will greatly accelerate the design of functional synthetic genomes. In this project, transfer learning and transformer-based models fine-tuned on experimental data will be used to crack the hidden code in DNA that controls expression levels for individual genes.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Active learning route to autonomous division
Supervisor: Wilhelm Huck, Radboud University Nijmegen
PhD position
Keywords:
-
The construction of synthetic cells is a challenging task. In this project, we aim to establish an experimental platform that could ‘evolve’ the complexity of functions present in a synthetic cell. You will combine formation of liposomes functionalized with cell division machinery, with high throughput characterization and active learning cycles, to select for conditions yielding self-dividing synthetic cells.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Structure and mechanism of minimal divisomes based on non-canonical Dynamin-like GTPases
Supervisor: Arjen Jakobi, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords:
-
We seek a PhD candidate to investigate dynamin-like proteins (DLPs) as minimal divisomes for synthetic cell division. The project involves structural and mechanistic studies of DLP-mediated membrane fission and fusion using cryo-EM, molecular dynamics simulations, and synthetic liposome models. You will explore novel DLP groups from metagenome analyses for their ability to mediate reverse topology fission, perform time-resolved structural analysis to unravel their mechanism by cryo-EM imaging, and develop a GTP regeneration system to fuel the division machinery. The project will be conducted jointly with leading collaborators, including Cees Dekker, Bert Poolman and Siewert-Jan Marrink labs. Ideal candidates will have expertise in molecular biology, biophysics, or structural biology.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Cytosolic protein translation mechanisms and bottlenecks
Supervisor: Sander Tans, AMOLF & TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords:
-
Breakthrough findings suggests ribosomes exploit yet-unknown dynamics and cooperativity to generate the highly complex proteins we know. To understand and optimize the underlying biophysics you will use cutting-edge sequencing and fluorescence-based methods. We are looking for an enthusiastic biophysicist or biochemist with a talent for quantitative and conceptual approaches.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Membrane protein biogenesis mechanisms
Supervisor: Sander Tans, AMOLF & TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords:
-
Breakthrough findings suggests ribosomes exploit yet-unknown dynamics and cooperativity to generate the highly complex membrane proteins we know. To understand and optimize the underlying biophysics you will use cutting-edge sequencing and fluorescence-based methods. We are looking for an enthusiastic biophysicist or biochemist with a talent for quantitative and conceptual approaches.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Establishing a cell shaper module for spatial control of synthetic cell division
Supervisor: Gijsje Koenderink, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords:
-
Synthetic cell proliferation across many generations requires robust spatial and temporal control of cell division. In this project you will establish a genome-encoded cell elongation module to promote precise mid-plane cell division and DNA segregation.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Equipping synthetic cells with adhesion receptors for surface attachment and mechanosensing
Supervisor: Gijsje Koenderink, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords:
-
A fundamental trait of living cells is their ability to sense and respond to their environment. You will make synthetic cells mechanically aware by engineering adhesion receptors for surface adhesion and mechanosensing. We seek an enthusiastic bioengineer, biophysicist or biochemist with affinity for mechanobiology, biochemistry and membrane biophysics.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Establishing effective DNA replication in synthetic cells
Supervisor: Gijs Wuite, VU
Postdoc position
Keywords:
-
In this project, you will work on optimizing and investigating the effectiveness of in vitro replication systems that are suitable for the replication of long DNA this in close collaboration with scientist at the WUR that develop in vivo design and evolutionary optimization of replication. Moreover, you will establish the need of DNA compaction/organization for establishing segregation ready genome. Finally, you will determine the workflow to move the module into a synthetic cell environment.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Optimizing adhesion and mechanosensing in and between synthetic cells
Supervisor: Gijs Wuite, VU
PhD position
Keywords:
-
In this project, you will work on new biophysical techniques that use acousto-mechanical methods to test the mechanical and mechanosensing properties of synthetic cell. Specifically, you will work on the development of novel sorting and screening tools where AFS is integrated with microfluidics and fluorescent microscopy. In addition, you will use the tools to screen, quantify and investigate the molecular systems that will be developed in the consortium that play a role in the (cell-cell & cell-surface) mechanosignaling & adhesion.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Breaking through challenges in the construction of synthetic chrosomomes for synthetic cells
Supervisor: Pascale Daran- Lapujade, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Synthetic cells, Chromosome foundry, Chromosome purity, Chromosome integrity Saccharomyces cerevisiae, RNA polymerase, in vitro transcription, PURE system.
-
Synthetic cells need a genome encoding a set of proteins required to supply all energy and building blocks as well as the machinery to assemble these blocks and enable cell division. Construction of chromosomes of several hundred kilobases can be achieved by the combination of in vitro and in vivo (in S. cerevisiae) DNA assembly. Synthetic Genomics has shown that this approach is powerful for the construction ofchromosomes for a wide variety of hosts (bacteria, algae, mammalian cells etc…). However construction of chromosomes for synthetic cells comes with several new challenges. For instance, living hosts can
efficiently ‘screen’ for synthetic chromosomes, and particularly intact ones, out of the DNA extracted from yeast or E. coli. However, in vitro gene expression systems, such as PURE (Protein Synthesis Using Recombinant Elements) cannot, which leads to poor gene expression in vitro. In this project we will break through challenges in the construction of synthetic chrosomomes for synthetic cells.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Construction and optimization of synthetic chromosomes for self-expression of PURE
Supervisor: Pascale Daran- Lapujade, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: synthetic chromosomes, automation, PURE system, in vitro transcription and translation, RNA polymerase.
-
Synthetic cells need a core machinery for protein expression from DNA. E. coli transcription and translation systems can be functionally recapitulated from purified proteins in vitro (ca. 120 transcription units, e.g. the PURE system). To be self-catalyzed, synthetic cells need to be able to synthetize their transcription and translation machinery from their genome. The goal of this project is to construct and optimize ‘PURE chromosomes’ carrying all elements required for transcription and translation, that will enable selfexpression of the complete gene expression system in vitro.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Setting up a pipeline for mid-throughput, modular and flexible assembly of large DNA constructs and synthetic chromosomes.
Supervisor: Pascale Daran- Lapujade, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords: standardized DNA library, DNA and chromosome construction, automation, combinatorial DNA assembly, PURE system, Cell-free system, chromosome integrity
-
Synthetic cells need a genome encoding a set of proteins required to supply all energy and building blocks as well as the machinery to assemble these blocks and enable cell division. The goal of this project is to set up and validate a mid-throughput pipeline for modular and flexible assembly, in vitro and in vivo (in yeast) of large DNA constructs and synthetic chromosomes that will serve as blueprints for synthetic cells.
-
The vacancy is currently being formally prepared by the host institute. Once available we will provide a link here by which you can enter the application process. Until that time you can contact the PI directly for more information.
Optimizing transcription and translation in the PURE system using massively parallel transcriptomics and ribosome profiling
Supervisor: Alexander van Oudenaarden, Hubrecht Institute
PhD position
Keywords: PURE, Transcriptomics
Computational analysis to reconstruct prokaryotic gene content evolution
Supervisor: Thijs Ettema, WUR
Postdoc position
Keywords: Phylogenetics, comparative genomics
Design, analysis and optimization of coding & non-coding sequences of genetic modules
Supervisor: John van der Oost, WUR
Postdoc position
Keywords:
Optimizing and testing DNA design for the synthetic genome
Supervisor: Cees Dekker, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords: Synthetic Genome, Genome design, IVTT
Developing a microfluidics platform for lab-on-a-chip evolution of synthetic cells
Supervisor: Cees Dekker, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords: Microfluidics, Machine learning, Directed evolution, Synthetic genome
Cell shape deformation and division by RNA origami tiles
Supervisor: Cees Dekker, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords:
Cell shape deformation and division by RNA origami tiles
Supervisor: Cees Dekker, TU Delft
Postdoc position
Keywords:
Active learning route to autonomous division
Supervisor: Wilhelm Huck, Radboud University Nijmegen
Postdoc position
Keywords:
Establishing a robust FtsZ-based divisome for synthetic cell constriction
Supervisor: Gijsje Koenderink, TU Delft
PhD position
Keywords:
Building a sensing module
Supervisor: Pieter Rein ten Wolde, NWO Institute AMOLF, Amsterdam
PhD position
Keywords:
Modelling the cell cycle
Supervisor: Pieter Rein ten Wolde, NWO Institute AMOLF, Amsterdam
Postdoc position
Keywords:
Design, testing and evolutionary optimization of a simple replication system
Supervisor: John van der Oost (MIB/WUR)
PhD position
Keywords: