Open positions

We are looking for one postdoctoral scientist for our ERC-project combining microfluidics with live-cell imaging and electron cryomicroscopy.

The focus of this position is on microfluidic cryofixation. Cryofixation is the gold standard for preserving the structure of proteins and cells so that they can be imaged under vacuum by electron cryomicroscopy. Here the aim is to devise microfluidic devices and associated micro-mechatronic instruments to investigate the dynamic ultrastructural response of specific cell types to transient mechanical, chemical, and thermal stimuli. We hope that this platform will ultimately contribute to improving the diagnosis and treatment of diseases by helping to advance our understanding of dynamic cellular processes at the structural level.

The position is best suited for researchers with a background in experimental physics or engineering who have some wet-lab experience and enjoy hands-on hardware development (e.g. microfabrication, precision mechanics, microscopy optics) for biomedical research at the cell level. Independent writing of publications and grant applications in English is expected.

We provide a friendly, international, and interdisciplinary team environment at one of the leading engineering schools in Germany. As a member of our group, you benefit from numerous cross-departmental programs such as the Centre for Synthetic Biology, the Ingenium Postdoctoral training & networking platform, and support for developing an independent scientific career. The city of Darmstadt is located in the heart of the Rhein-Main metropolitan area within commuting distance from the cities of Frankfurt, Mainz, and Heidelberg.

TU Darmstadt intends to increase the number of female employees and encourages female candidates to apply. In case of equal qualifications, applicants with a degree of disability of at least 50 or equal will be given preference. The position will be offered initially for up to 2 years. Wages and salaries are according to the collective agreements on salary scales, which apply to the Technische Universität Darmstadt (TV-TU Darmstadt). The fulfilment of the duties likewise enables the scientific qualifications of the candidate. Part-time employment is generally possible.

By submitting your application, you agree that your data may be stored and processed for the purpose of filling the vacancy. Here you can find our privacy policy.

Applications should be sent via e-mail to Professor Thomas Burg (thomas.burg@tu-…).

Required application documents:

• CV
• List of publications
• Names and contact information of at least two references

The goal of this project is to develop new microfluidic technologies for detecting single biomolecules, nanoparticles, and viruses with high throughput. Such technologies are needed in many fields, ranging from synthetic biology to pharmaceutical science and medical diagnostics. Here we aim to integrate microfluidic systems with microfabricated diffractive and refractive optical components to detect pathogens and biomarkers fast, scalable, and with better specificity than existing techniques.

As a member of our group you will be part of a vivid interdisciplinary and international community including the Centre for Synthetic Biology and the Graduate School Life Science Engineering. The unique expertise of our group includes microfluidics, heat transfer, label-free sensing, and advanced light and electron microscopy (cryo and room temperature). The city of Darmstadt is located in the heart of the Rhein-Main metropolitan area within commuting distance from the cities of Frankfurt, Mainz, and Heidelberg.

We are looking for candidates holding a university degree (Masters or equivalent) in physics, electrical, or mechanical engineering, or in a closely related field. Prior experience with lithographic microfabrication is helpful. German language skills are not necessary, but fluency in English is required.

TU Darmstadt intends to increase the number of female employees and encourages female candidates to apply. In case of equal qualifications, applicants with a degree of disability of at least 50 or equal will be given preference. The position will be offered initially for up to 3 years. Wages and salaries are according to the collective agreements on salary scales, which apply to the Technische Universität Darmstadt (TV-TU Darmstadt). Opportunity for further qualification (doctoral dissertation) is provided. The fulfillment of the duties likewise enables the scientific qualifications of the candidate.

By submitting your application, you agree that your data may be stored and processed for the purpose of filling the vacancy. Here you can find our privacy policy.

Please submit your application via e-mail to Professor Thomas Burg (thomas.burg@tu-…).

Required application documents:

• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Names and contact information of one to three references