PhD and Postdoc Positions: Development of Micro-Nano-Bio Systems for Fast Sepsis Diagnosis
Danmarks Tekniske Universitet
Lyngby-Taarbæk, 2 stillinger
DTU Nanotech conducts cross-disciplinary research, where micro- and nanotechnology is applied to a wide range of scientific disciplines, e.g., mechanics, optics, chemistry, medical technologies and biotechnology. The BioLabChip group at DTU Nanotech invites applications for one PhD and one Postdoc fellowship positions to develop advanced micro-nano-bio systems for fast sepsis diagnosis.
Background
The candidates will work on the SMARTDIAGNOS project, which is a newly-funded EU project under Horizon 2020 framework programme. It involves ten partners (including four companies) from five European countries.
Sepsis is a great public health issue not only in EU but also worldwide because of its high incidence, mortality and economic cost. Sepsis diagnosis remains one of the greatest clinical challenges in critical care. We aim at advancing sepsis diagnosis by simplifying the current clinical analysis methods and integrating the numerous steps, including sample preparation, DNA amplification and optical detection, into a single plastic cartridge that will be inserted in an instrument. A number of cutting-edge micro-nano-bio and bio-photonic technologies will be developed. The intended diagnostic tool will enable fast and accurate identification of sepsis-related pathogens as well as their antibiotic resistance profiles, so that effective antimicrobial therapy can be initiated.
Responsibilities and tasks
The PhD and postdoctoral positions will be filled with the best combination of PhD/postdoctoral candidates. Candidates for both positions should demonstrate excellent communication and language skills, a strong drive to obtain results and the ability to work in a highly cross-disciplinary environment. Candidates for the postdoctoral position are further expected to have a proven track of publishing and the ability to generate, plan and execute new ideas. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in international collaborations and in supervision of students.
The main task of position 1 is to cover the physical aspects of the device development, including the chip, the setup and the readout. The work includes: (1) design, fabrication and testing of injection molded plastic chips with micro-optical structures; (2) construction and testing of a setup with temperature control, microfluidic handling and optical readout; (3) automation of setup and data analysis; (4) collaboration with other partners on system integration and evaluation using biological samples.
The main task of position 2 is to cover the biological aspects. The work includes: (1) development of new sample concentration method to capture pathogens directly from blood; (2) development of multiplexed PCR for identification of a large-panel of pathogens and the relevant antibiotic resistance profiles; (3) implementation of assays on chip platform; (4) collaboration with other partners on system integration and evaluation using biological samples.
Qualifications
The successful applicant for Position 1 should have a background (MSc/PhD degree or equivalent) in Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering or related disciplines, with a strong background in micro and nanofabrication, optical detection, and system design and setup. The ideal candidate has experience in microfluidics and injection moulding as well as the construction, application and automation of lab-on-a-chip systems. The candidate should be self-driven, and have a strong interest to work together with biologists and be part of a multidisciplinary team. The candidate will have a high motivation for research, evidence of solid written and oral communication skills.
The successful applicant for Position 2 should have a background (MSc/PhD degree or equivalent) in Molecular Biology or related disciplines, with a strong background in sample preparation and molecular amplification techniques, such as PCR. Experiences with microarray and lab-on-a-chip systems will be considered as an advantage. The candidate should demonstrate evidence of self-driven and independent prior research productivity, excellent collaboration and communication skills, an interest in working in an interdisciplinary research environment, and a strong motivation to succeed within a competitive research field.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by an assessment committee chaired by Assoc. Prof. Anders Wolff. All applications will be reviewed to generate a short list of candidates. Potential candidates will be contacted for interview.
We offer
We offer an exciting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research and innovation. There are good possibilities for professional and personal growth. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world. DTU Nanotech offers state-of-the-art laboratory facilities for all parts of the project.
Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms of the PhD position are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years.
The appointment of the Postdoc position is based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed with the relevant union. The period of employment is 2 years with the possibility for a 2-year extension (total 4 years).
The start date of the positions is February 1st 2016. The positions will be based at the DTU Lyngby Campus, Denmark.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Anders Wolff (+45) 2245 0209, anders.wolff@nanotech.dtu.dk.
You can read more about DTU Nanotech on <a href='javascript:openLinkWindow("http://www.nanotech.dtu.dk")' "="" data-cke-saved-href='javascript:openLinkWindow("http://www.nanotech.dtu.dk")'>http://www.nanotech.dtu.dk.
Application
Please submit your online application no later than 9 November 2015. Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online," fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
•Cover letter stating your specific interest, motivation and qualifications for the project. It is essential that you clearly state in the title: (1) whether you apply for position 1 or 2 and (2) whether you apply for a PhD or Postdoc position.
•Curriculum vitae including relevant information on previous employment, research training, experience and competencies, teaching experience, scientific publications, conference presentations and list of personal references.
•For PhD candidates: Authorized copies of BSc and MSc degree diplomas, and transcript of grades (an official translation into English). Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here). Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it.
•For Postdoc candidates: Authorized copies of BSc, MSc, and PhD diplomas, and transcript of grades (an official translation into English) with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here).
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU Nanotech - the Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology - is situated in the northern part of Copenhagen. DTU Nanotech is a center of excellence in micro- and nanotechnology utilizing sciences across the traditional boundaries of technology, thereby enabling innovative solutions for the benefit of society. DTU Nanotech has approx. 220 staff members with 40 % international employees, hence, the department constitutes an international environment.
DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and public service. Our staff of 5,800 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society; and our 10,300 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government, and public agencies.
