Research technician for microbial fermentation and electrosynthesis

This 3-year research technician position is part of a collaboration between Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder). The partnership includes three TU Delft research groups at the Department of Biotechnology (dr. Klijn, dr. Vieira-Lara, and dr. Jourdin) and one CU Boulder research group embedded in the Department of Mechanical Engineering (prof. Rieker). The overarching aim of this collaboration is to integrate and apply a novel analytical technique to perform real-time spectroscopic monitoring of the bioreactor off-gas for two different types of bioprocesses, namely microbial fermentation in suspension and biofilm-based microbial electrosynthesis. With this technology we set out to advance bioprocess understanding and accelerate bioprocess optimization, scale-up, and automated control.

We are looking for an outstanding and creative technician with a strong background on wet-lab fermentation activities. This includes the internal motivation to expand your horizon, ability to learn quickly, and strong communication skills to easily connect with all team members.

Required educational background

• At least completed HBO-level education in biotechnology, microbiology, biochemical engineering or a closely related discipline

Recent experience or clearly supported motivation

• Worked in fermentation laboratory

Required technical skills

• Wet-lab fermentation skills
• Bioreactor operation
• Thorough knowledge of analytical techniques (e.g. HPLC, GC, MS, TOC/TN)

Skills that are considered a plus

• Affinity with hardware integration to bioreactors
• Theoretical (and practical) knowledge on spectroscopy techniques
• Experience with, or interest in, CAD drawing
• Experience with, or interest in, 3D-printing

Sought-after transferable skills

• Pro-active and problem solving mindset
• Excellent written and spoken English skills
• Ability to break-down and communicate complex research data
• Thrives in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary, and highly collaborative environment

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.

With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century.

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Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 3 February 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• 2-page CV, including contact details of 2 to 3 references
• 1-page motivation letter

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.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.