PhD Position: Molecular Information Processing

1. Introduction

Do you want to contribute to the next level of molecular computing? Are you excited about the application of AI tools to train molecular systems how to process information? Then join our team as a PhD candidate!

2. Job description

Scientists have speculated about the inherent potential of molecular systems for information processing since the dawn of computer science. However, the digital computing paradigm is inherently ill-suited for molecular system. Recently, we reported a major breakthrough in using chemical reaction networks for so-called in chemico reservoir computing (Nature, 2024, 631, 549–555). This work demonstrated that self-organising reaction networks and the emergent complexity in such systems form powerful reservoir computers capable of non-linear classification, times-series prediction and forecasting, on a par or even outcompeting in silico algorithms.

The ambition of this project is to expand in chemico reservoir computing to other reaction networks, especially enzymatic reaction networks. By incorporating light-sensitive groups and exploiting the inherent temperature and pH sensitivity of enzymes, we will construct chemical computers that sense their physico-chemical environment and process this information into desired outputs. Ultimately, we wish to use these chemical reservoirs as a molecular ‘brain’ that can interface with both electronic and biological systems.

In this project, you will combine a deep knowledge of chemical reaction networks with robotic systems and analytical science. You will also learn how to programme robotic systems and how to implement aspects of deep learning and neural networks for reservoir computing. You will be part of the Big Chemistry consortium and will also be involved in training and teaching BSc and MSc students. We are looking for two PhD candidates for this opening.

Would you like to learn more about what it’s like to pursue a PhD at Radboud University? Visit the page about working as a PhD candidate. 

3. Profile

• You have a Master’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field.
• You are motivated by deep scientific curiosity, have excellent experimental and quantitative skills and possess a drive to learn and develop new methods and concepts.
• You have excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• You have a strong affinity with teamwork and thrive in an international, ambitious, multidisciplinary and highly collaborative environment.   

4. We are

The department of Physical Organic Chemistry is an international, diverse and multidisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, biologists, engineers and AI/ML scientists at the Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University (Nijmegen, Netherlands). The Big Chemistry consortium is funded by the Dutch National Growth Fund and combines AI and chemistry with the aim to accelerate research in complex molecular systems.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) of 1.5 years, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, your contract will be extended by 2.5 years (4-year contract).     
• You will receive a starting salary of €2,901 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, which will increase to €3,707 in the fourth year (salary scale P).
• 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 applying

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

Applications will be reviewed, and interviews scheduled during the recruitment period. Therefore, you will receive feedback and information about a possible follow-up process shortly. If a suitable candidate is found before the closing date, the vacancy will be closed, and further applications will no longer be possible. 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.