Postdoc “Artificial molecular motors based DNA-walkers for linear transport along a track” (V25.0122)

Molecular machines are essential for biological processes such as molecular transport, DNA maintenance, and motion. The ability to design and control synthetic molecular machines offers groundbreaking opportunities in nanomedicine, adaptive materials, and self-healing systems. This project, part of the NWO-XL collaborative initiative "Joining Forces for Human-Made Molecular Machines", focuses on designing motorized DNA-nanoscale building blocks and to demonstrate the first light-controlled artificial muscles and conveyor belts.

The combined efforts of a postdoctoral researcher and a PhD student will focus on designing and synthesizing molecular rotary motors with the necessary functionalities for DNA binding, leveraging the extensive expertise developed in the Feringa group. Further functionalization of these target molecules with force transducers for direct mechanical probing, along with thorough characterization of motor rotation and DNA binding, is planned. Special attention will be given to designing molecular systems that operate effectively in aqueous environments. This project aims to push the boundaries of synthetic molecular machinery by exploring photochemical properties, rotational speed control, and functionalization for biomolecular integration.

Organization
The University of Groningen is a research university, currently in or around the top 100 on several influential ranking lists. The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) is the largest faculty within the University, offering first-rate education and research in a wide range of science and engineering disciplines.

The mission of the Stratingh Institute for Chemistry is to perform excellent research and teaching in molecular and supramolecular chemistry. Core activities in the chemical sciences such as bioorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular inorganic chemistry and molecular materials chemistry are embedded in the institute. The research programme is focused on synthesis, catalysis, functional materials, bio-organic chemistry/chemical biology and systems chemistry/complex molecular systems.

The research program of the Feringa group is focused on synthetic and physical organic chemistry. Inspired by Nature's principles of molecular assembly, recognition, transport, motion and catalysis, the goal is to exploit the full potential of synthetic chemistry to create new structures and functions. A major part of the research is directed towards dynamic molecular systems. The focus is on molecular nanoscience, novel responsive materials and photo-pharma exploring biohybrid systems, self-assembly, molecular switches and motors. A second part of the program deals with the development (and application in chemical biology) of novel stereoselective synthesis methods and asymmetric catalysis. Chirality is a leading theme and over the years a unique and broad expertise in fundamental aspects of stereochemistry has been acquired including chiroptical phenomena, chiral amplification and origin of chirality.

We are looking for candidates who meet the following requirements

• A PhD degree in Chemistry.
• Solid knowledge and demonstrated skills in synthetic organic chemistry are essential; expertise in photochemistry and stereochemistry is strongly recommended. Knowledge of bioconjugation and DNA nanotechnology will be considered an asset.
• A proven publication record showcasing your ability to produce high-quality research published in international, peer-reviewed journals, preferably in top-tier outlets.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Experience supervising BSc/MSc/PhD students is an advantage.
• A high degree of independence and the ability to drive your research forward.
• A proactive and motivated approach to identifying research opportunities and contributing to the success of the project and team.

We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities

• A salary based on qualifications and experience (after obtaining PhD) of starting at € 4,060 gross per month (salary scale 10, step 4).
• Excellent secondary terms of employment.
• A holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• 232 holiday hours per calendar year for full time employment.
• Participation in a pension scheme for employees.
• A personal budget of € 1,000 per year for additional training and career activities.
• A temporary fulltime position for a specified period of 12 months, with a possibility of extension.

The starting date is flexible, but is preferably as soon as possible

Do you meet our qualification criteria? If yes, you’re requested to upload the following documents

• A motivation letter stating your motivation to apply for the position and your key qualities relevant for this position.
• An up-to-date curriculum vitae, including a publication record.
• Contact information of two academic references.

You may apply for this position until 24 March 11:59pm / before 25 March 2025 Dutch local time (CET) by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

Please note: Extra security has been set up on our application form, which makes it more difficult for applicants from high-risk countries to apply. If you experience any problems sending your application, please contact recruitment rug.nl for support.

The University of Groningen strives to be a university in which students and staff are respected and feel at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identities. We believe that working on our core values of inclusion and equality are a joint responsibility and we are constructively working on creating a socially safe environment. Diversity among students and staff members enriches academic debate and contributes to the quality of our teaching and research. We therefore invite applicants from underrepresented groups in particular to apply. For more information, see also our diversity policy webpage: https://www.rug.nl/about-ug/policy-and-strategy/diversity-and-inclusion/

Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the Recruitment code (NVP): https://www.nvp-hrnetwerk.nl/nl/sollicitatiecode and European Commission's European Code of Conduct for recruitment of researchers: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code

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