AcouSome postdoc position in theory and simulation

28 June 2023

We publish a job advertisement for a postdoc position in the theory and simulation group that is currently working on the AcouSome project. Here are the details of the offer:

Postdoc in Theory and Simulation of Acoustofluidic Thin-Film Actuated Polymer Devices for Biotech Applications – DTU Physics

A unique opportunity is available in the research group of Prof. Henrik Bruus at the Department of Physics (DTU Physics), Technical University of Denmark (DTU). We are offering a post-doctoral research position taking part in the development of new class of polymer-based, thin-film-transducer-driven, acoustofluidic devices for separating and enriching exosomes from blood for use in the next generation of point-of-care diagnostics.

Exosomes are nano-sized extracellular vesicles that are released by a significant number of different cell types. They are considered an important biomarker, with high diagnostic potential in a wide range of diseases, including different kinds of cancer, hepatitis, kidney, cardiovascular and liver diseases.

In close collaboration with our project partners in transducer materials science, biomedical engineering, and industrial acoustofluidics applications, this postdoc project will provide the theoretical and numerical modelling component in the development of this new class of acoustofluidic devices. The project is hosted by the section for Biophysics and Fluids at DTU Physics and is part of the European Innovation Council project AcouSome involving partners at DTU, Lund University, the biotech company AcouSort, and the innovation studio Day One.

Responsibilities and tasks
The successful candidate for this position will be in charge of physical modeling, design optimization, and numerical characterization of the new class of acoustofluidic devices.

• You will be responsible for establishing the basic physical model of polymer-based, thin-film-transducer-driven, acoustofluidic devices.
• You will be responsible for using the basic physical model to assist in the development of an optimized design of the acoustofluidic device.
• You will contribute with numerical modeling to characterizing the acoustofluidic device.
• You will be part of a feed-back loop comprising modeling, fabrication, and testing with experimental project partners.
• You will engage in supervision of bachelor and master-level students.

This work will take place in the DTU Phyiscs,Theoretical Microfluidics Group, headed by Prof. Henrik Bruus, and it involves close collaboration with the DTU Section for Functional Oxides, headed by Prof. Nini Pryds, and the Lund University, Acoustofluidics Group at Biomedical Engineering, headed by Prof. Thomas Laurell, as well as with our industrial partners at AcouSort and Day One.

Qualifications
The successful candidate:

• should hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in physics, engineering or equivalent, and have a solid knowledge of continuum phyiscs theory and fluid dynamic simulation,
• has experience with establishing models within micro- or acoustofluidics,
• has experience with implementing numerical models of micro- or acoustofluidic systems, preferably in COMSOL Multiphysics,
• has experience with validating numerical models using experimental data (e.g. obtained by others),
• has demonstrated independent problem-solving skills,
• has demonstrated ability to collaborate with experimentalists,
• has a proven track record of scientific production and research potential at the international level,
• has excellent English communication and language skills,
• and finally, the candidate should have outstanding technical writing skills

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 2 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 5 July 2023 (Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply now”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Physics
DTU Physics carries out research in modern physics, especially in four main areas: sustainable energy, materials, quantum technology and biophysics. Our focus is both to acquire greater knowledge about basic scientific problems and to conduct research oriented towards use in societies and companies. Read more at www.fysik.dtu.dk/english/

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.

See the original job posting here