Postdoc on Bubble dynamics for broadband microrheology of complex fluids

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Job description

The Garbin lab (https://garbinlab.org) is looking for a postdoc with a strong background in rheology and an interest in developing novel rheological methods based on bubble dynamics. The deformation field around a stationary, spherical bubble undergoing a change in radius is simple and localized, thus making it suitable for rheological measurements [1]. In addition, the deformation imparted by bubble dynamics can reach extreme conditions, being characterized by a large strain, or a high frequency. In recent years, our lab has explored emerging approaches to extract information on the rheology of complex fluids by analysing bubble dynamics, for instance caused by mass transfer or driven by an acoustic field [2]. Previous work from our lab has focused on using ultrasound-driven microbubbles for high-frequency linear rheology of hydrogels [3] and to locally deform and manipulate yield-stress fluids [4,5]. Recently we have combined controlled deformation by bubble dynamics with confocal microscopy of colloidal gels. In this project you will use controlled bubble deformation for characterization of soft materials, will consolidate the suite of rheological protocols that can be performed with bubble dynamics, and will further develop the technique and combine it with microscopy to simultaneously monitor the evolution of the microstructure. Ultimately you will be able to provide novel insights in the behavior of soft materials under extreme deformation conditions. You will join a diverse and interdisciplinary team working on microscale transport phenomena in soft and biological matter. The Garbin lab is embedded in the Department of Chemical Engineering, and the project offers exciting synergies with colleagues in the Department of Bionanosciences, and with an international network of collaborators.  

 

[1] Current Opinion in Colloid and Interface Science 50, 101392 (2020), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cocis.2020.101392.

[2] Annual Review of Fluid Mechanics 51, 331 (2019).

[3] Soft Matter 13, 3946 (2017), https://doi.org/10.1039/C6SM02810A.

[4] Physical Review Fluids 4, 073301 (2019), https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevFluids.4.073301.

[5] Soft Matter 16, 10405 (2020), https://doi.org/10.1039/D0SM01044H. 

Requirements

We welcome applications from candidates who hold, or are near completion of, a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics or related disciplines. Applicants should demonstrate:

- a strong background in rheology and soft matter physics;

- experimental skills (required) in rheometry, imaging/microscopy, and image analysis;

- experimental skills (desirable) in confocal microscopy, microrheology, synthesis of colloidal gels;

- an interest in valorization of fundamental research, for instance the development of open source software;

- ability to communicate effectively with different audiences;

- an excellent track record in their education and research

- excellent command of English (written and spoken);

- an open mind to collaborate with other scientists and industry.  

 

Conditions of employment

This postdoc position has a fixed-term contract of 1 year, with the possibility to extend for 1 additional year. The post is available immediately.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creatorsof 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 and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

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Faculty Applied Sciences

With more than 1,000 employees, including 135 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,400 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 train 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 and science communicators.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

Additional information

This postdoc position has a fixed-term contract of 1 year, with the possibility to extend for 1 additional year

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply before 24 September 2021 via the application button and upload:

1) A cover letter motivating your interest for this vacancy (max 1 page);

2) Your CV, including list of publications, and contact information of at least 2 references;

3) A maximum of 2 representative papers from your PhD project.

 

Please note:

• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• Applying for an exemption for specific research and educational areas is an obligatory part of the selection procedure for this vacancy. This exemption must be obtained from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) before an employment contract is agreed upon. Click here for more information.
• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.