Teaser Text
The Metabolomics and Analytics Center (MAC) seeks to hire a Postdoctoral Researcher for research into segmented flow for high throughput NMR and metabolomics.
This project will produce an innovative biotechnology screening platform for molecular profiling, with potential to bridge multiple applications and scientific fields. Previously, in collaboration with dsm-firmenich, we developed an automated system for stopped flow injection of water-based slugs into a push solvent followed by NMR detection of metabolites[1]. This platform included automated sample handling robotics, a custom-built flow cell, and precise fluidic control via segmented flow microfluidics. Your research will focus on upgrading the automation control of the system and increasing knowledge on the microfluidics of segmented organic solvent slugs in suitable push solvent, including flow-cell design. Both LACDR and dsm-firmenich have a strong track record in development and implementation of cutting-edge instrumentation to advance metabolomics, respectively, in the fields of biofluid diagnostics and industrial biotechnology. This work will build on this strong academic-industrial collaboration and aims to develop innovative solutions for NMR based metabolomics of apolar compounds.
[1] Wouters et al., Automated Segmented-Flow Analysis – NMR with a Novel Fluoropolymer Flow Cell for High-Throughput Screening, Analytical Chemistry 94;44 2022
What you will do
You will focus on:
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Studying the slug stability of organic solvent slugs (e.g. acetone, acetonitrile, chloroform) in different push solvents for detection of apolar metabolites with segmented flow NMR
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Developing novel NMR flow-cells to study the influence of the flow-cell design on the slug stability of organic solvent slugs
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Next version of automation of the liquid handling robotic platform including pump control, slug detection, and feedback loops
- Demonstrating the potential of the improved system with use cases for biotech and human health and disease applications
The research will be performed in collaboration with the Analytical Sciences department of dsm-firmenich in Delft (NL), where two systems are installed for segmented flow high throughput NMR. You may work with PhD or Masters students enrolled at Leiden University, if their skills and interests align with the project.
What you bring
Selection criteria:
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PhD in analytical chemistry, microfluidics, chemical engineering, robotics, biomedical engineering or similar field
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Experience in microfluidics, specifically segmented slug flow
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Programming proficiency, preferred in python and LabView
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Interest in the field of metabolomics, programming, and NMR is desired
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Good to excellent proficiency in English is required
Where you will work
The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. The LACDR is an international leading drug research institute. The Metabolomics & Analytics Centre (MAC) has been a pioneer in Metabolomics since early 2000, and combines advanced metabolomics technologies, innovative sample preparation and robotics, and computational and FAIR digital twinning expertise’s. MAC is involved in many academic and industrial collaborations.
As innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients, flavors, and fragrances for the world’s growing population to thrive. With our comprehensive range of solutions, with natural and renewable ingredients and renowned science and technology capabilities, we work to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. Our capabilities in analytical sciences provide tailored insights for data-driven decision-making across innovation projects in all business areas.
What we offer
We offer a full-time position for initially one year. After positive evaluation of the progress of the research, personal capabilities and compatibility the appointment can be extended further for one or three years. The salary ranges, depending on qualifications and experience, from € 3546,- to € 5538,- gross per month (pay scale 10 in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities), plus an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development.
What we value
Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. We strive to be an open community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to fully develop themselves. We consider an inclusive academic environment, where students and staff can share their experiences and viewpoints, to be essential for the development of talent.
Want to apply or find out more?
Enquiries can be made to Prof. dr. Thomas Hankemeier (hankemeier@lacdr.leidenuniv.nl). If you have any questions about the procedure, please contact Mrs. Ina Hazejager, (s.a.hazejager@lacdr.leidenuniv.nl)
To apply for this vacancy, please submit your application online via the blue button below. Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:
• Motivation letter;
• Full curriculum vitae;
Only applications received before May 15, 2026 can be considered.
Acquisition following this advertisement is not appreciated.