We seek a highly-motivated postdoctoral researcher to develop to develop advanced computational methods for cryogenic electron tomography (cryo-ET) that enable the visualization of molecular complexes directly within cells. A central focus of the project will be the development of improved image simulation frameworks. These simulations will not only serve as benchmarking tools for method development, but will play a key role in a tightly integrated experimental-computational workflow. In close collaboration with experimental researchers, the candidate will use simulation-driven insights to guide the design and optimisation of molecular probes that enable the specific identification of target complexes within densely packed cellular tomograms. In parallel, the candidate will develop and implement novel computational strategies that combine physics-based modeling, optimization techniques, and machine learning approaches to improve cryo-ET image processing workflows. This includes key challenges such as tilt series alignment and 3D template matching, as well as broader contributions to cryo-ET data analysis, including particle detection and the quantitative interpretation of tomograms. The position involves close interaction with experimentalists, and the candidate will actively support ongoing projects by developing and applying image processing pipelines, assisting in data interpretation, and ensuring that methodological advances translate into facilitating biological discovery.
Your home base will be the Jakobi Lab (https://cryoem.tudelft.nl) at TU Delft | Kavli Institute of Nanoscience. We are a multidisciplinary and internationally diverse team of scientists with backgrounds ranging from (bio)chemistry and physics to bioinformatics and cell biology. Our drive is to push boundaries in our aim to visualise molecular processes in their native context and at the highest possible resolution. As part of the Department of Bionanoscience and the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, we enjoy access to state-of-the-art infrastructure for biochemistry, molecular imaging, cryoEM/ET and high-performance computing. We are also committed to world-class education, and you will have the opportunity to contribute by mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. We foster a friendly, collaborative, and non-hierarchical environment where ideas and expertise are openly shared in pursuit of ambitious scientific goals. You will receive strong support and training to further your personal and professional development.
We seek an outstanding computational scientist, bioinformatician, physicist, or interdisciplinary researcher with a strong affinity for developing methods at the interface of computation, physics, and structural biology. The ideal candidate has a genuine interest in advancing fundamental methodology for cryogenic electron tomography and enjoys working closely with experimental researchers to translate computational advances into practical biological insights. We are looking for a candidate with intellectual creativity, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively across disciplines.
Required qualifications:
- You hold a PhD in computational science, physics, applied mathematics, bioinformatics, structural biology, or a related field.
- You have strong computational and programming skills (e.g. Python, Julia, C++), including experience with scientific computing and machine learning libraries and high-performance computing.
- You have experience with image analysis or computational imaging, ideally in the context of electron microscopy, tomography, or related modalities.
- You have demonstrated experience in developing algorithms or computational methods, for example in image simulation, optimization, or data analysis workflows.
- You have an interest in, or experience with, machine learning approaches for scientific data analysis.
- You have a strong interest in interdisciplinary research and enjoy collaborating with experimental scientists.
- You communicate clearly and effectively in English, as you will work in an international research environment.
Ideally, you also have:
- Experience with cryo-EM or cryo-ET data analysis, including areas such as tilt series alignment, 2D/3D template matching, or subtomogram averaging.
- Experience with physics-based modeling or simulation of imaging processes.
- Familiarity with scientific software development
- A track record of peer-reviewed publications demonstrating methodological or computational contributions.
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!
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. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.
Conditions of employment
- Duration of contract is 2 years. Temporary.
- A job of 38 hours per week.
- Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
- The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
- Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
- Flexible working week.
- Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
- Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
- Partially paid parental leave
- Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.
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
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Arjen Jakobi (a.jakobi@tudelft.nl) clearly stating the vacany number in the subject line.
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 8 May 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
You can address your application to Arjen Jakobi.
Please note:
- #EUfunded This is an EU funded project, named INFLAMMAZOOM, with project number 101230715, within program Horizon Europe | European Research Council (ERC).
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
