Postdoc Position: Synthetic Motile Systems for Disruption of Biofilms

1. Introduction

The Systems Chemistry Department at Radboud University is excited to announce an opportunity for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the ERC-funded SynMoBio project. This highly interdisciplinary research programme focuses on the development of synthetic motile systems with cilia- and flagella-like movement, based on supramolecular assemblies with controlled shape, size and morphology.

2. Job description

These bioinspired systems are designed to move, sense, and adapt in biological environments, enabling breakthroughs in active delivery, sensing, and environmental regulation at the cellular and systemic levels. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will investigate the collective behaviour of these motile systems, their chemical communication, and their potential for targeted disease treatment, such as biofilm disruption and bacterial clearance. You will develop enzyme engineered nanomotors from biocompatible and biodegradable self-assembled materials for the targeted disruption of biofilms (e.g. Pseudomonas aeruginosa) combining principles of microbiology, nanotechnology, and synthetic biology, study their dynamic interactions with cells and biological systems, and contribute to advancing the field of autonomous synthetic systems for nanomedicine.

This role is ideal for ambitious postdoctoral researchers aiming to establish themselves as future leaders in academia. You will work on pioneering biofilm research and nanomotor development, leveraging the synergy of microbiology and systems chemistry to tackle one of the most pressing challenges in infection management.

Your key responsibilities:

• Develop, optimise, and validate enzymatic and protein-engineered nanomotors for biofilm disruption.
• Explore biofilm dynamics and Pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogenesis under various physiological conditions.
• Investigate mechanisms of biofilm disruption through nanomotors.
• Actively contribute to the preparation of high-impact research papers and grant proposals.
• Mentor junior researchers and students, enhancing your leadership profile. 

3. Profile

• You have recently obtained a PhD in microbiology, chemical biology, bioengineering, supramolecular chemistry, or a related field.
• You have expertise in bacterial pathogenesis, biofilm formation and antimicrobial strategies, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa and related infectious models.
• You have strong analytical skills and experience with microscopy, spectroscopy, or motility studies.
• Experience with enzyme-functionalised systems, enzyme kinetics or bioinspired active matter for bacterial interaction studies is a plus.
• You have demonstrated the ability to conduct interdisciplinary research, ideally involving nanotechnology or synthetic biology.
• You have a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• You are highly motivated, independent and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary, international environment.
• You have excellent communication and scientific writing skills and are proficient in English. 

4. We are

The SynMoBio ERC project is a pioneering research programme integrating polymer chemistry, supramolecular chemistry and nanotechnology to engineer autonomous motile systems for biomedical applications. You will be embedded in the Systems Chemistry Department at Radboud University, surrounded by a diverse and collaborative team working at the interface of chemistry, materials science, and nanomedicine.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of one year with the possibility to extend.
• Your salary within salary scale 10 depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• We offer Dual Career Coaching. The Dual Career Coaching assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands. 
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

6. Practical information and application

You can only apply via the button below. Address your letter of application to Daniela Wilson. In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application.

Applications will be reviewed during the recruitment period. Therefore, you will receive feedback and information about a possible follow-up process shortly. It is also possible that the vacancy will be closed earlier than the stated application deadline once it is filled. The first (online) interviews will take place on Monday 21 April. Any second interview will take place on Monday 28 April. You will preferably start your employment as soon as possible.

We can imagine you're curious about our application procedure . It describes what you can expect during the application procedure and how we handle your personal data and internal and external candidates. If you wish to apply for a non-scientific position with a non-EU nationality, please take notice of the following information .