PhD on Nanoswitches for Continuous Nucleic Acid Monitoring Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

PhD on Nanoswitches for Continuous Nucleic Acid Monitoring at Eindhoven University of Technology

This PhD project at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) focuses on next-generation nanoswitch sensors for the continuous monitoring of complex nucleic acids. The research explores how nanometer-scale constructs that change configuration upon molecular binding can be adapted for real-time, multiplexed sensing of dynamic nucleic-acid targets such as virus-like particles and plasmids.

The project is embedded in the Molecular Biosensing group and uses a particle-based sensing platform with single-molecule resolution called Biosensing by Particle Motion. Research activities include nanoswitch design, sensor fabrication, sensor testing, and modelling. The long-term objective is to enable continuous sensing technologies for advanced bio-manufacturing applications. The group combines laboratory-based and computational approaches and works closely with the Protein Engineering research group and the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems.

The project is highly collaborative and benefits from links with research institutes, academic hospitals, and bioprocessing companies. The lab is active in international scientific networking through the Sensors for Health competition and the Continuous Real-time Biomolecular Sensing symposium. Publications related to the sensing technology and group information are available through the provided research links.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should have a master’s degree or equivalent in engineering sciences and/or analytical sciences, for example bioengineering, chemistry, biomedical engineering, or analytical chemistry. A research-oriented mindset, ability to work in an interdisciplinary team, interest in industry collaboration, motivation to develop teaching skills, and fluent English at C1 level are required.

Funding and employment: the position is a full-time PhD employment for four years under the Dutch Universities collective labour agreement, with salary in scale P (gross monthly base salary €3,204–€4,051 full-time), plus an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus. Additional benefits include pension contributions, leave options, training support, commuting/home-working support, and immigration assistance for eligible international candidates.

Application window: the vacancy was published in September 2026 and remains open until 2026-10-11. Applications must be submitted online and must include a cover letter, CV with three references, BSc and MSc course/grade lists and transcripts, and PDF copies of the BSc thesis and MSc thesis if available. Incomplete applications will not be considered.