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Delft University of Technology
New Today
PhD Position in Decoding Environmental History from Microorganisms for Living Sensors and Memory Delft University of Technology in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
4-year PhD employment with salary and benefits according to the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
Deadline
Nov 15, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Delft University of Technology
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About this position
This PhD project explores how living microorganisms can be used as environmental sensors and memory systems. Rather than relying on conventional disposable electronics, the research asks whether organisms that naturally integrate environmental signals can be decoded to reveal the conditions they have experienced over time.
The student will work on understanding the visual and structural responses of microorganisms to different environmental conditions, then build computational methods that can interpret those responses from images. A key part of the work is to develop and validate decoders that recover environmental history from biological readouts, combining experimentation with machine learning and computer vision.
The project is intentionally trans-disciplinary and connects biodesign/biotechnology, machine learning, and interaction design. The candidate will also develop prototypes that use living sensors in practical applications, including compostable smart packaging for monitoring temperature and humidity in food, vaccines, or archival materials.
The PhD will be based in the Sustainable Design Engineering environment at TU Delft, at the intersection of the Knowledge and Intelligent Design group and the Materializing Futures group within the Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering. The position is embedded in a research setting that combines design research, technical experimentation, and prototyping across the university's labs and studios.
Funding details
4-year PhD employment with salary and benefits according to the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
What's required
Applicants should have a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Biodesign, Design Engineering, or a related field. They should have experience in building and deploying machine learning or computer vision models, and technical competencies in one or more of bio-digital systems, biodesign, applied machine learning, computer vision, computational biology, and/or physical prototyping. Candidates should have an interest in biodesign and hands-on interaction with living organisms, experience or interest in conducting research with sound experimental design, and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, communicate effectively, and take initiative. Prior publications and conference presentations are assets but not required. English proficiency is required for communication, doctoral courses, and thesis writing.
How to apply
Apply via the online application button before 15 November 2026. Upload your CV and cover letter. Do not submit applications by email or post.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.