PhD on Ultracold Electron Source Development for Time-Resolved Protein Crystallography
Develop a pioneering ultracold electron source to capture molecular movies of protein function via time-resolved crystallography.
Best for:Best for physics graduates with strong experimental backgrounds in optics, vacuum systems, or cold atoms seeking a ground-breaking PhD opportunity.
Overview
Eindhoven University of Technology offers a fully funded four-year PhD position within the Coherence and Quantum Technology group in the Department of Applied Physics. Funded by the ERC project 'Cool T-ReX', the research aims to build the world's first laboratory-scale instrument for time-resolved protein crystallography using electrons rather than large-scale X-ray facilities. The successful candidate will drive the development of a pulsed electron source with extreme transverse bunch brightness based on laser-cooled atoms. The role involves close collaboration with experienced technicians, fellow researchers, and Principal Investigator Julius Huijts.
What you'll do
- Design, build, and optimize a novel pulsed electron source using laser-cooled atoms.
- Push transverse coherence and brightness limits of electron beams beyond the current state of the art.
- Collaborate with internal team members, technicians, and external research groups on protein crystallography experiments.
- Contribute to department teaching and educational tasks for 10% to 15% of the employment time.
- Organize personal research workflow and effectively communicate scientific findings across disciplines.
Requirements
Degree required: MSc in Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Mechatronics with a strong physics component, or similar
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; C1 level fluency in spoken and written English
Instruction: English
- Background or proven affinity with mechanical and optical design
- Experience with complex optical setups
- Familiarity with charged particle optics or cold atoms
- Experience working with high vacuum or high voltage systems
- Strong team player with effective cross-disciplinary communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to take initiative and organize workload independently
- Hold an eligible Master of Science degree prior to appointment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-21
Submit your application through the online university portal by the specified deadline. Ensure all requested documents highlighting your background and project affinity are attached.
- CV
- Cover letter
- MSc transcripts
Contact
Julius Huijts· Principal Investigator
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