Product Area Lead Services

Let’s shine and make our support services better every day.
This is about happy customers, passionate employees, and an effective and efficient process. That’s what we work on within Product Area Services. With our Student and Employee Service Desk, Workplace Devices, Faculty supporters staffing our six hubs, and the Service Management team monitoring our overall LIS service level, we work every day on improving our IT support to the TU/e community.

LIS Services
Within LIS we work in product areas and we work according to dual management. There are 7 areas and every area has a product area lead and a competence manager. Within the area services there are +/- 35 employees divided over 4 teams and a lot of student assistants helping us in our day to day processes. The main challenges we face are the continuous improvement of our services, working in a more efficient way and translate the rapidly changing needs of our university into new solutions for tomorrow.

Job Description

• You are the connection between the strategic goals of TU/e, LIS, and our portfolio;
• You act as a business partner for the faculties and other service departments;
• You continuously seek the balance between the needs of our customers and stakeholders and the possibilities within our LIS portfolio;
• You challenge our teams to put the customer at the center and to adapt and improve our processes accordingly;
• You monitor the quality of our services together with the service manager and steer improvements;
• You work closely with the coordinators of the teams and the competence manager of this area;
• You help the area develop an agile mindset and corresponding ways of working;
• You are part of the LIS management team.

Job Requirements

• You have a higher professional (HBO) or academic (WO) level of working and thinking;
• You have experience in managing teams;
• You have an inspiring vision on customer service and value and the processes connected to them;
• You are a networker and connector and you can communicate at various levels;
• You have experience within an university context;
• You inspire others with your action-oriented mentality;
• You are proficient in both Dutch and English.

Conditions of Employment
An exciting position within an international yet personal university. You are right in the middle of the students, on a green campus within walking distance of the central station. Besides beautiful architecture, you will find varied workplaces and excellent sports facilities. We also offer you:

• A monthly salary of minimum €4.728,- to maximum €7.297,- for full-time employment, depending on your knowledge and experience (scale 11/12 collective labour agreement for Dutch Universities).
• In addition to vacation pay, a structural end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• A favorable arrangement for more holidays or a sabbatical.
• A selection model for additional fringe benefits.
• Working hours in consultation for an optimal work-life balance.
• Scope for your talent with advancement prospects and excellent development opportunities such as mentoring, workshops and coaching.
• Partially paid parental leave and reimbursement for commuting expenses, working from home and the internet.
• A generous employer contribution to the favorable ABP pension plan.

Here you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

Information
To be able to adjust to our changing context, this role will start as a temporary position for at least one year. That makes it an excellent possibility as a first step into management experience on this level.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to have more information about the position, please contact Dianne Koenen (Compentence Manager LIS) via b.a.w.koenen@tue.nl

Application
If you are interested, please fill in the interest registration form and send us your motivation letter attached with a recent CV.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Important for non-EU applicants: Please be aware that for this position, specific residence permit requirements apply. If you are a non-EU national, you may not be eligible to legally work in this role under current Dutch immigration regulations. We strongly advise you to contact our Staff Immigration Team (staffimmigration@tue.nl) before applying to check your eligibility and to receive further guidance.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Product Area Lead Services

• You are the connection between the strategic goals of TU/e, LIS, and our portfolio;
• You act as a business partner for the faculties and other service departments;
• You continuously seek the balance between the needs of our customers and stakeholders and the possibilities within our LIS portfolio;
• You challenge our teams to put the customer at the center and to adapt and improve our processes accordingly;
• You monitor the quality of our services together with the service manager and steer improvements;
• You work closely with the coordinators of the teams and the competence manager of this area;
• You help the area develop an agile mindset and corresponding ways of working;
• You are part of the LIS management team.

PhD in “Vasculature-on-chip models for improving nanobubble-enhanced ultrasound imaging”

Introduction
Effective cancer management requires precise imaging, but current methods are not sufficiently accurate. Tumor vasculature abnormalities, such as increased permeability and tortuosity, challenge traditional imaging techniques. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) using microbubbles can map microvascular dynamics but is limited to assessing intravascular flow and structure. Nanobubbles, capable of penetrating the tumor microvasculature and targeting cancer-specific biomarkers, offer enhanced imaging potential. However, their clinical translation is hindered by insufficient understanding of nanobubble acoustic behavior and flow kinetics in the microvasculature. In this collaborative project, we will develop a comprehensive strategy combining (1) vasculature-on-chip models, (2) in-depth nanobubble characterization, and (3) tailored imaging solutions to advance cancer diagnostics by nanobubble ultrasound imaging. The research on these three topics will be carried out by 2 PhD students and a postdoc at Eindhoven University of Technology and the University of Twente. The whole consortium also includes industrial and clinical partners.

This particular PhD project aims to develop the in-vitro vasculature-on-chip models, microfluidic chips in which controllable and physiologically relevant representations of the tumor microvasculature are created. These cm-sized chips are then used by the other researchers in the overall project for US imaging experiments. The models should fulfil several critical requirements: first, the geometry and size of the vascular network should be representative of real (tumor) microvasculature, i.e. consisting of 3-dimensional networks of perfusable lumens with circular cross section, ranging from a hundreds of microns down to a few microns in diameter; second, the model should include relevant biology, i.e. lumens should be endothelialized, it should allow the inclusion of tumor cells, and the cells should be embedded in a relevant extracellular matrix (ECM); third, the chips must be acoustically transparent to allow transmission of ultrasound, i.e. the materials have optimal acoustic impedance and attenuation characteristics; additionally, a desirable characteristic is optical transparency to allow for validation testing by optical imaging.

Job Description
The overall project aims at enabling new imaging methods for cost-effective and accurate detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, as well as several other forms of cancer for which angiogenesis plays a role, using nanobubble-based CEUS. This will be achieved by extending fundamental knowledge on nanobubble acoustic response in relevant conditions, on nanobubble kinetics in the microcirculation and extravasation into tissue, and by jointly optimizing nanobubble formulation and image acquisition, analysis and interpretation methods.

As it is the most common and second-most lethal cancer in the western world, our primary focus is prostate cancer. With the project, we will tackle the challenges described above through a multidisciplinary approach which combines our expertise in bubble physics, bio-mimicking microfluidics, ultrasound modeling and signal analysis. Three junior researchers will work synergistically to achieve a framework for improved image-based cancer diagnostics, consisting of an experimental model of (cancer) microvasculature, nanobubble theoretical and experimental characterization, and dedicated US signal analysis methods.

As a PhD student in this project, you will design, realize, and experimentally characterize in-vitro vasculature-on-chip models. To create the vascular networks, we will use a proven concept of 3D printing and angiogenesis. With our previously developed sugar 3D printing technique, we can create sacrificial templates consisting of complex networks of fibers with circular cross sections and diameters from tens to hundreds of microns. These fiber templates can be embedded in hydrogel mimicking ECM and subsequently selectively dissolved leaving a hollow network in the hydrogel. Then, endothelial cells are seeded in the luminal network to create a biologically relevant vessel network that can be connected to a micropump to perfuse them with liquid and injecting with contrast agents. The diameter of the blood vessels created with this printing technique is limited to tens of micron in diameter, but the vessel diameters in the real (tumor) microvasculature may be as small as a few microns. We will achieve such small vessels by combining our 3D printing technique with directed angiogenesis, thus achieving a vascular model with a broad range of (relevant) dimensions. To connect the chips to a perfusion pump, it must be contained in a small casing which should be made from materials that are acoustically transparent. We will characterize the flow characteristics and the biological characteristics using (live) microscopy of relevant cell characteristics.

Building on this first-generation model, we will develop a second-generation model in which we will modulate and characterize the permeability of the endothelium. This is deemed important for the quantification of nanobubble extravasation. Different concentrations of inflammatory agents are known to affect endothelial permeability, mimicking the characteristic leakiness of the tumor vasculature. Such agents will be administered to the model, and the permeability will be characterized using fluorescent microscopy, combined with optical characterization of the cells like for the first-generation model. This will provide a range of vsaculature models with different permeabilities for the US nanobubble experiments. After full fluidic and biological characterization, these second-generation chips form a representative model for the US experiments carried out by our project partners, and will be compared with in-vivo models.

Embedding
The PhD student will be embedded in the Microsystems research section at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, headed by prof.dr.ir. Jaap den Toonder, and they will be supervised by prof.dr.ir. Jaap den Toonder. The Microsystems group manages the Microfab/lab, a state-of-the-art micro fabrication facility that houses a range of micro manufacturing technologies – microfluidics technology and organ-on-chip research are main research pillars of the group. The project is a collaboration between two groups at Eindhoven University of Technology (at Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering), one group at the University of Twente, and several industrial and clinical partners.

Job Requirements
We are looking for enthusiastic PhD candidates with a background in mechanical or biomedical engineering. The ideal candidate would have experience in microfluidics, microfabrication, organ-on-chip, cell culture, and cell and tissue characterization, but excellent candidates with a background in one area (and an interest to master the other) will also be considered. We are looking for a motivated candidate who enjoys working in a multidisciplinary academic environment and has interest in applied research. Our dream candidate is skilled at practical work in the microfabrication and biology labs and is also able to use and develop theoretical skills needed to develop a fundamental understanding of the subject matter. Other important personal skills include fluent spoken and written English, a proven ability to manage a project, to be able to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and to be self-driven.

Conditions of Employment
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

About us
Eindhoven University of Technology is a leading international university within the Brainport region where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager professor Jaap den Toonder, j.m.j.d.toonder@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact Femke Verheggen, HR Advisor, hradviceme@tue.nl, or +31 40 247 4796.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

PhD in “Vasculature-on-chip models for improving nanobubble-enhanced ultrasound imaging”

The overall project aims at enabling new imaging methods for cost-effective and accurate detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer, as well as several other forms of cancer for which angiogenesis plays a role, using nanobubble-based CEUS. This will be achieved by extending fundamental knowledge on nanobubble acoustic response in relevant conditions, on nanobubble kinetics in the microcirculation and extravasation into tissue, and by jointly optimizing nanobubble formulation and image acquisition, analysis and interpretation methods.

As it is the most common and second-most lethal cancer in the western world, our primary focus is prostate cancer. With the project, we will tackle the challenges described above through a multidisciplinary approach which combines our expertise in bubble physics, bio-mimicking microfluidics, ultrasound modeling and signal analysis. Three junior researchers will work synergistically to achieve a framework for improved image-based cancer diagnostics, consisting of an experimental model of (cancer) microvasculature, nanobubble theoretical and experimental characterization, and dedicated US signal analysis methods.

As a PhD student in this project, you will design, realize, and experimentally characterize in-vitro vasculature-on-chip models. To create the vascular networks, we will use a proven concept of 3D printing and angiogenesis. With our previously developed sugar 3D printing technique, we can create sacrificial templates consisting of complex networks of fibers with circular cross sections and diameters from tens to hundreds of microns. These fiber templates can be embedded in hydrogel mimicking ECM and subsequently selectively dissolved leaving a hollow network in the hydrogel. Then, endothelial cells are seeded in the luminal network to create a biologically relevant vessel network that can be connected to a micropump to perfuse them with liquid and injecting with contrast agents. The diameter of the blood vessels created with this printing technique is limited to tens of micron in diameter, but the vessel diameters in the real (tumor) microvasculature may be as small as a few microns. We will achieve such small vessels by combining our 3D printing technique with directed angiogenesis, thus achieving a vascular model with a broad range of (relevant) dimensions. To connect the chips to a perfusion pump, it must be contained in a small casing which should be made from materials that are acoustically transparent. We will characterize the flow characteristics and the biological characteristics using (live) microscopy of relevant cell characteristics.

Building on this first-generation model, we will develop a second-generation model in which we will modulate and characterize the permeability of the endothelium. This is deemed important for the quantification of nanobubble extravasation. Different concentrations of inflammatory agents are known to affect endothelial permeability, mimicking the characteristic leakiness of the tumor vasculature. Such agents will be administered to the model, and the permeability will be characterized using fluorescent microscopy, combined with optical characterization of the cells like for the first-generation model. This will provide a range of vsaculature models with different permeabilities for the US nanobubble experiments. After full fluidic and biological characterization, these second-generation chips form a representative model for the US experiments carried out by our project partners, and will be compared with in-vivo models.

Embedding
The PhD student will be embedded in the Microsystems research section at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, headed by prof.dr.ir. Jaap den Toonder, and they will be supervised by prof.dr.ir. Jaap den Toonder. The Microsystems group manages the Microfab/lab, a state-of-the-art micro fabrication facility that houses a range of micro manufacturing technologies – microfluidics technology and organ-on-chip research are main research pillars of the group. The project is a collaboration between two groups at Eindhoven University of Technology (at Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering), one group at the University of Twente, and several industrial and clinical partners.

PhD on Inverse methods for PEREGRINE (Performance Extremized Freeform-Gradient Index Optics)

Context: The position is based on the PEREGRINE proposal, funded by the NWO (Dutch Research Council) - KIC call, with academic partners at Eindhoven and Delft Universities of Technology, and industrial partners at Anteryon, ASML, Demcon, JMO, and Signify. The vision of this project is to develop F-GRIN optical components described further below.

The Computational Illumination Optics (CIO) group from Eindhoven University of Technology will lead this project and will be responsible for the inverse design of the F-GRINs. CIO group is one of the few mathematics groups worldwide working on mathematical models of optical systems. We develop and analyze numerical methods to solve the resulting differential equations.

F-GRINs: Materials with a spatially-dependent distribution of the refractive index, known as freeform gradient index (F-GRIN) optics, is a modern development to control the colour-dependent (dispersive) distribution of light. Such an F-GRIN optic offers a large number of design parameters to transform the incident light distribution to a desired output distribution. Thereby the device allows to perform a functionality relevant to our high-tech users and will bring sustainability benefits and new economic opportunities to the society.

Project Goal: The goal of this project is to establish the mathematical framework for the modelling, numerical simulation, and inverse design of the F-GRINs. Correspondingly it has the following goals and task divisions:

1. Mathematical modelling: Mathematically modelling the propagation of light energy through the gradient index optics. A challenge regarding this will be the modelling of scattering which will result in the generalised form of the radiative transfer equation.
2. Forward numerical solver: Based on the mathematical model derived, the goal would be to develop a numerical solver for the differential equations that is fast and robust. The main challenge here is the high dimensionality of the problem and the coupling with Hamiltonian optics.
3. Inverse problem (Optimsation): Upon solving the forward problem reliably and efficiently, the goal would be to prescribe a refractive index (RI) distribution for the F-GRIN that results in a target distribution of light from a given source distribution in a broadband optical range. This would require a PDE-constrained optimisation strategy and is a generalised optimal transport problem.

The end-goal would be to come up with a model-solve-design pipeline that our industrial and academic partners can use for practical applications. We have achieved this already for optical surfaces, i.e. mirrors and lenses (see [1]), now it is time for F-GRINs.

Positioning: The project lies in the confluence of mathematical modelling, scientific computing, and optimisation. Moreover, it has deep ties with physics and technology with a promise to improve how optical elements are designed in industry, and how optimal transport problems are solved in general.

For more details, see Project_details_PEREGRINE.pdf.