Postdoc position on microfluidic mass production of therapeutic microgels University of Twente in Netherlands

University of Twente is offering an exciting postdoc position on microfluidic mass production of therapeutic microgels in the Leijten Laboratory, within the Department of BioEngineering Technologies. The project sits in a recently funded NWO-Perspectief consortium called RecovAir, which aims to develop innovative delivery methods for lung therapeutics using microfluidic devices, nanomaterials, pharmacological compounds, advanced in vitro models, and therapeutic cells. The broader goal is to advance a state-of-the-art strategy for treating COPD and supporting lung tissue regeneration.

The successful postdoc will work on highly advanced microfluidic technology that has recently been invented in the department and is patent pending. The research focuses on developing and fabricating microfluidic device strategies to improve performance, and on investigating the function of the resulting living microgels. A key challenge is to explore the platform's ability for full aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) production at MHz speeds, potentially improving current production rates by orders of magnitude. The work includes a novel physics principle not previously used in microfluidic devices, making the project both fundamentally challenging and highly relevant for real-world applications.

The position is highly multidisciplinary and spans microtechnology, materials science, physics, engineering, and stem cell biology. The postdoc will interface with clinicians, cell biologists, and pharmacologists, and will be trained in microdevice fabrication, micromaterial production, cell encapsulation, advanced photopolymerization, materials characterization, advanced cell culture, and scientific writing. The post also offers the possibility to explore founding a spin-off company to valorise the patent and associated technology, with support and training from University of Twente.

Applicants should have a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Biomedical Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related equivalent background. The role requires strong analytical skills, solution-oriented problem solving, a clear interest in microfluidics and biomaterials, experience in microengineering or microdevice fabrication, and fluent English communication. Experience in fluid physics, hydrogels, cell culture, and advanced optical analysis is considered an advantage. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, flexibility, and an entrepreneurial mindset are important for success in this collaborative and translational setting.

The appointment is fully paid, full-time, and for two years. The salary follows the Dutch university collective labour agreement (CAO-NU) and ranges from €4,241 to €5,538 gross per month, with an 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, pension provisions, and generous leave conditions. University of Twente also offers access to state-of-the-art research facilities, professional development programmes, and a supportive research environment.

The application deadline is 31 August 2026. Candidates should apply through the university vacancy portal and submit a short video, cover letter, CV, PhD work summary, references, and an English proficiency test if required. Informal enquiries can be directed to Prof. dr. Jeroen Leijten at jeroen.leijten@utwente.nl.