PhD Position in DNA Origami Nanoactuators for Molecular Diagnostics

Passionate about nanotechnology to solve outstanding questions in single-molecule biophysics? Join us! We're seeking an experimental PhD to develop a DNA origami platform for rare molecule detection. 

Job description

DNA and proteins are fantastic examples of molecular machinery. In the Caneva Lab, we develop novel biophysical platforms to image and control the dynamics and mechanics of biomolecular processes at the single-molecule level. In the recently funded VIDI project, we combine ultraflat, biocompatible 2D materials surfaces with DNA nanotechnology to study how molecules move, interact and function using fluorescence microscopy techniques. We will apply this fundamental understanding to generate biosensors capable of detecting rare circulating tumor DNA with the aim to allow regular monitoring of cancer progression through liquid biopsies.

As an experimental PhD in the VIDI project, your task will be to gain mechanistic and quantitative insights into DNA nanomotions at 2D material surfaces. You will design and assemble a platform that combines DNA origami nanotechnology, 2D material surfaces and single-molecule fluorescence imaging to study the switching behaviour of DNA origami actuators in the presence of a target analyte. Using opto-structural microscopy techniques, you will acquire and analyse statistically-significant datasets to reveal individual biomolecule mechanics and dynamics, and assess the sensitivity and specificity of the molecular switches. This fundamental knowledge will be used to develop a highly sensitive and high throughput device that can detect the presence of circulating tumor DNA in a massively parallel manner using fluorescence signals.

You will have the opportunity to contribute to a vibrant and interdisciplinary team of physicists, materials scientists, engineers and biochemists. The environment is open and collaborative, promoting daily interaction and knowledge exchange. You will benefit from strong mentorship and tailored training.

DMN Section

Join a cutting-edge research team advancing the understanding and application of small-scale systems in motion. You will be part of the Dynamics of Micro and Nanosystems (DMN) section within the Precision and Microsystems Engineering Department of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at TU Delft. DMN is at the forefront of research into the dynamics of micro and nanosystems, exploring their physical properties and pioneering innovations that bridge fundamental science with practical applications. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, labs and equipment at the Delft Kavli Institue of Nanoscience, Mechanical Engineering and Bionanoscience Departments to help develop your research.   

Job requirements

We are looking for candidates that meet the following criteria:

• MSc degree in Physics, Biophysics, Biochemistry, Nanotechnology, Materials Science or similar.

• Prior experience with AFM imaging of biolological samples, DNA origami nanotechnology and/or fluorescence microscopy is highly desirable.

• Creative, open-minded and proactive researcher.

• Excellent experimental and analytical skills.

• Ability to be part of a team and work independently.

• Fluency in English (spoken and written).

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) 

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. 

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration. 

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Mechanical Engineering 

From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems. 

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation. 

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work. 

Conditions of employment 

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met. 

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2872 per month in the first year to € 3670 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. 

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.  

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.  

Additional information

For more information about this vacancy, please contact s.caneva@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 6 July 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• A cover letter explaining your motivation to apply for this PhD project in our group

• Your CV

• The names and contact details of three references

You can address your application to Sabina Caneva.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements. 

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure. For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.