PhD Position in Bayesian Modeling and Counterfactual Methods for Nanoparticle Transport in Human Tissue Delft University of Technology in Netherlands

TU Delft is advertising a PhD position in Bayesian modeling and counterfactual methods for nanoparticle transport in human tissue. The project is embedded in the European SYNERGIE consortium (Horizon Europe) and focuses on building a computational model that can follow how particles move between multiple human tissues, change as they travel, and influence exposure and safety decisions.

The PhD researcher will join the group of Dr. Sepinoud Azimi at the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), within the Faculty of Technology, Policy & Management. TU Delft leads the in silico work package of a consortium that includes partners such as Fraunhofer, Roche, the Karolinska Institute, University Hospital Aachen, Mimetas, Ruhr University Bochum, and Maastricht University.

Research themes include computational science, applied mathematics, statistics, dynamical systems, Bayesian inference, causal inference, counterfactual reasoning, and scientific programming in Python. The project aims to build a mechanistic model of particle movement across nine human tissues, calibrate it using experimental data, infer which particle properties influence transport, and develop methods that go beyond prediction to ask what change would improve a particle’s behavior and when such conclusions should not be trusted. The resulting model will be released as open-source software and used in regulatory dialogue.

The position is well suited to candidates with an MSc in applied mathematics, computational science, physics, systems biology, or another closely related quantitative field. Required experience includes building and solving ODE or dynamical systems models, using Bayesian inference in a probabilistic programming framework such as PyMC, Stan, or NumPyro, and strong Python programming skills. Applicants should also provide a link to a code repository. Preferred skills include optimization or optimal control, causal inference, surrogate modelling, Gaussian processes, emulation, physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling, systems pharmacology, and software packaging/documentation.

The position is a 4-year doctoral appointment in principle, with an initial 1.5-year contract followed by a 2.5-year extension if progress is satisfactory. Salary is stated as €3204–€4051 gross per month on a full-time contract (38 hours), plus an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. The project is EU-funded under Horizon Europe. TU Delft also mentions support with relocation, a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work-costs contribution.

The intended start date is January 2027. The application deadline is 29 November 2026. To apply, submit the online application with a CV, brief cover letter, one-page research statement, and a link to a code repository. Address the application to Dr. Sepinoud Azimi. Email applications are not accepted.