荷兰宁根大学研究中心有机化学博士后职位

We are looking for an enthusiastic and productive postdoctoral organic chemist with additional expertise in polymer and/or surface chemistry for addressing an important issue in biosensor development. For the development of surface-based biosensors, there is great interest in the preparation of surfaces that combine a high affinity for the analyte of interest with a complete repellence for all other (bio)molecules. In this project we aim to achieve the latter goal by growing highly non-fouling zwitterionic polymer films from an inorganic silicon nitride scanning probe tip. To this aim, we would like to develop a well-defined zwitterionic polymer coating, onto which we attach an appropriate biomolecule (e.g. a peptide, protein or aptamer) that can selectively bind the analyte of interest. Careful characterisation of the surface will be required to confirm whether the different steps have all been performed successfully. After optimizing this onto flat surfaces, the approach will be transposed onto scanning force microscopy tips, and the effects studied by scanning probe microscopy.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will synthesise the monomers that will constitute the polymer coating after a grafting-from polymerisation procedure, investigate the surface-bound polymer by a variety of surface-sensitive techniques, and perform fundamental studies on its structure, mechanical and (bio)chemical stability. Finally, this information will be used to help construct the specific device, and optimise its performance.

This is a highly multidisciplinary project in which several universities and companies collaborate intensively.

Requirements
For this position we request the candidate to hold a PhD degree in organic chemistry. Hands-on experience with polymer synthesis and surface chemistry is desired. Also, you are a highly motivated and ambitious researcher with a proven track record of scientific excellence. We expect you to be able to perform independent research, have good communicational and social skills, be fluent in English and are eager to engage in collaborations with co-workers.

Terms of employment
We offer a temporary position with an average working time of 38 hours per week for the period of 1 year, with the possibility of an extension of one year after a positive evaluation. Gross salary € 3830,- maximum per month depending on experience.

We not only offer a competitive salary but also good (study) leave and a pension of the ABP Pension Fund.

Contact information
For more information about this position, please contact prof. Han Zuilhof, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, e-mail han.zuilhof@wur.nl.
For more information about the contractual aspects, please contact Mrs. N. de Vries, HR advisor, telephone number: +31 (0)317 485677.