PhD Position in Mass Spectrometry Instrumentation

Job description
Macromolecular assemblies (MMAs), including protein complexes and viruses—are vital to many biological processes like signal transduction and cellular transport. Their higher-order molecular-structure defines their functions, making it crucial to study their molecular-structure with high-resolution and high-accuracy imaging methodologies. Ultimately this helps to gain novel insights into the fundamental processes of human health and disease.

Single-particle cryogenic-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has emerged as a leading method for determining MMA structures at atomic resolutions. However, several challenges related to sample preparation, data collection and processing hinder further advancements in spatial resolution. This project focuses on improvements in the sample preparation of individual proteins for single particle Cryo-EM. A critical limitation in sample preparation is protein heterogeneity, which persists despite the use of pre-fractionation techniques, which are often insufficient to produce ultrapure samples for cryo-EM. The vitrification (e.g., plunge freezing) step is also challenging as particles can localize at the air-water interface, preventing random orientations necessary for 3D structural analysis. This issue combined with the difficulty of achieving uniform ice thickness necessitates extensive sample screening.

Recognizing these limitations, we will develop image-guided native mass spectrometry (nMS) as a sample preparatory tool for cryo-EM. nMS preserves non-covalent interactions within MMAs, maintaining native physiological conditions while transitioning to the gas phase. The mass and charge state selected native MMA particles can then be gently deposited (“soft-landing”) onto a cryo-cooled transmission EM (TEM) grid. This approach could mitigate the challenges of plunge freezing and reduce sample heterogeneity by leveraging the ultrahigh-resolution mass separation and selection capabilities of the MS, while maintaining the higher-order molecular-structure of MMAs.

This PhD project focusses on the design, development and construction of the soft-landing unit, encompassing its characterization; ion optics, mechanical, thermal, and electronic design; software development; construction; integration; step-by-step testing and optimization. Key components, such as the cryo-microcooler, water vapor deposition system, advanced ion optics, and imaging detectors, will be integrated progressively.

Along the way, you will develop and utilize a range of advanced skills, including imaging technologies and software, analytical and imaging methodologies, vacuum technology, biological sample preparation, and electrical and mechanical engineering. Furthermore, you are expected to present your work in scientific journals and at scientific conferences which will utilize skills such as technical writing, public speaking, and study of the current scientific literature base. You will also be able to gain experience teaching and mentoring bachelor and master students.

The successful PhD candidate will be supervised by Dr. Anjusha Mathew and Prof. Dr. Ron M. A. Heeren. This is a full-time, 4-year fully funded position at the M4i Institute at Maastricht University, Netherlands. The anticipated start date is early autumn 2025, but reasonable flexibility is available for the right candidate.

Requirements
Required:

• A master’s degree in Physics, Mechanical engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Chemistry, Analytical Science and Technology, or a related subject
• Proficiency in English (C1 or higher) and an open communicative attitude
• Lab experience with physics or chemical instrumentation
• Capacity to quickly acquire new knowledge and master new skills
• Interest and ability in hands-on research activities
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team
• Problem solving skills and creativity
• A desire and ability to share your research through oral and written communication

Other experience / skills that would be helpful for the project:

• Vacuum technology instrumentation
• Mass spectrometry
• Ion beams and ion optics
• Mechanical design and engineering
• Electronics design and engineering
• Transmission electron microscopy
• Instrument control systems and software
• Programming
• Analytical techniques and methodologies
• Biological sample preparation

Associate professor Epidemiology

Job Description
The research program ‘Occupational Epidemiology’ (dept. of Epidemiology, Maastricht University) focuses on the mutual relationship between health, wellbeing and labor participation. Using an epidemiological approach, etiology, natural course and treatment of different health complaints and diseases in the working population are studied. The primary goal of the research program is to expand the knowledge on health in relation to labor participation to contribute to the increased need of evidence-based (occupational) medicine. The research program aims to develop tools and strategies for prevention, treatment, and socio-medical counselling of employees. By doing so, it seeks to improve health, wellbeing, and labor participation while reducing sick leave and work disability rates in the Netherlands.

We are seeking the future successor of the current program leader of this research program. Our ideal candidate is a mid-career academic who can be appointed directly as an associate professor with potential for promotion to full professor. The candidate will take on the role of program leader for the research program Occupational Epidemiology within the department of Epidemiology and will also represent the research program in the research line ‘Functioning, Participation & Rehabilitation of the research institute CAPHRI.

The candidate will be responsible for the coordination, development, and execution of ongoing and future research projects, as well as teaching roles in the broad field of methodology and occupational epidemiology. The intended ratio between teaching and research is 50%-50%. Specific duties include:

• Contributing to and shaping the research agenda of occupational epidemiology.
• Supervising students and PhD candidates in the field of occupational epidemiology.
• Utilizing expertise to inform policy development and provide advisory services.
• Attracting, initiating, and leading research projects to successful completion.
• Establishing and nurturing sustainable partnerships within and beyond the research school on a regional, national and international level.
• Developing, coordinating, managing and executing of educational activities in Bachelor/Master courses related to epidemiology, as well as occupational
  epidemiology.

Job Requirements
We are seeking a candidate with a strong academic background in the field of occupational epidemiology, who has a genuine passion for both science and education. You thrive in innovative environments and are driven by a commitment to excellence and meaningful impact.
Below are the qualifications we consider important for the position.

Education

• A PhD degree in a relevant field, such as (occupational) health, occupational epidemiology, or a related subject within occupational medicine/insurance medicine.

Expertise and skills in research

• In-depth knowledge of work and health in general, with a particular focus on functioning and participation in work.
• Broad expertise in epidemiology, with a strong focus on cohort studies and observational research.
• Relevant research experience within the field of occupational epidemiology, demonstrated through your track record (including publications, projects, supervision, and ability to attract funding).
• Knowledge of occupational health care within the Dutch context is an advantage.
• A good scientific track record, including excellent publications as first, second, or last author in the top 10%-25% international peer-reviewed journals.
• Proven ability and experience in supervising MSc/BSc students and PhD candidates within this research area.
• Practical experience in conducting research within real-world settings.

Expertise and skills in teaching

• A lecturer with a strong track record in teaching.
• Demonstrated affinity, vision and experience with developing, organizing and teaching in university Bachelor/Master courses.
• A University Teaching Qualification (UTQ), an equivalent certification or the willingess to obtain this within a year.

Management skills

• Management skills to effectively lead the Occupational Epidemiology research program and coordinate projects.
• Experience in or willingness to taking on leadership roles within a university setting.
• Proven administrative experience within the university, at both department and research institute levels.

Network and ability to attract funding

• A strong national and international professional network.
• Demonstrated ability to attract funding, both nationally and/or within the EU.

Personal qualities and talents

• Personal Leadership: You take responsibility for your work and career, demonstrating a high level of self-awareness.
• Team Spirit: You are able to integrate with teams, contributing to collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and fostering an open and inclusive work environment.
• Networking Skills: You are proactive in strengthening and expanding your connections with stakeholders in the field, both nationally and internationally.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: You are able to adjust your research focus based on developments in society, work, and health.
• Managing Conflicting Interests: You are skilled at navigating and balancing conflicting scientific and societal interests in research.

Language

• An excellent command of both written and spoken Dutch and English (both C1 level).

If you recognize yourself in most of these qualities, we would be thrilled to receive your application.

Docent Psychologie

Functieomschrijving
Als Docent kom je te werken binnen de Section Teaching and Innovation of Learning (STIL) werken. Een team van meer dan 45 bevlogen docenten die samen werken aan het verzorgen, ontwikkelen en implementeren van bestaand en nieuw onderwijs binnen de verschillende opleidingen en curricula van de faculteit FPN.

Jouw belangrijkste taken zijn:

• Je verzorgt onderwijs binnen één of meerdere programma’s aangeboden door de Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, in elk geval de Bachelor Psychology;
• Je bent tutor in verschillende blokken;
• Je bent trainer in vaardigheidstrainingen;
• Je begeleidt studenten bij het schrijven van hun these;
• Je bent als mentor betrokken bij de individuele ontwikkeling van onze studenten.

Verder draag je bij aan:

• De organisatie en samenwerking binnen de Section Teaching and Innovation of Learning (STIL) en binnen de faculteit;
• De innovatie van leren en onderwijzen door middel van evidence-based procedures;
• Coaching van de student tutoren werkzaam binnen de faculteit.

Functie-eisen
Jij weet als geen ander hoe je complexe informatie helder en boeiend overbrengt, en je staat open voor de dialoog met studenten en collega’s. Met jouw enthousiasme en passie voor het vak weet je studenten te inspireren en in beweging te brengen. Tevens heb je:

• Je hebt een academische opleiding Psychologie afgerond;
• Je bent gemotiveerd om 100% van je aanstelling onderwijs te verzorgen, met de mogelijkheid van het uitvoeren van onderzoek in het kader van mastertheses begeleiding;
• Je beschikt over uitstekende schriftelijke en mondelinge uitdrukkingsvaardigheden, zowel in het Nederlands als in het Engels;
• Je hebt affiniteit met, en bij voorkeur ervaring met, probleemgestuurd onderwijs en het begeleiden van groepen;
• Je hebt goede communicatieve, sociale en organisatorische eigenschappen;
• Je hebt affiniteit met Neuropsychologie, Ontwikkelingspsychologie, Arbeids- en organisatiepsychologie en met Statistiek.

Psychology Lecturer

Job Description
As a Lecturer, you will work within the Teaching and Innovation of Learning (STIL) Section. A team of more than 45 passionate teachers who work together to provide, develop and implement existing and new education within the various programs and curricula of the faculty FPN.

• You provide teaching within one or more programs offered by the Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, at least the Bachelor Psychology;
• You are a tutor in several courses;
• You are a trainer in skills training courses;
• You guide students in writing their theses;
• You are involved as a mentor in the individual development of our students.

Furthermore, you contribute to

• The organization and collaboration within the Section Teaching and Innovation of Learning (STIL) and within the faculty;
• The innovation of learning and teaching through evidence-based procedures;
• Coaching the student tutors working within the faculty.

Job Requirements

• You have completed an academic degree in Psychology;
• You are motivated to spend 100% of your appointment teaching, with the possibility of conducting research as part of master's thesis supervision;
• You have excellent written and oral expression skills, both in Dutch and English;
• You have affinity with problem-based learning and experience in supervising groups;
• You have good communication, social and organizational skills;
• You have an affinity with Neuropsychology, Developmental Psychology, Occupational and Organizational Psychology and Statistics.

Grants Adviseur

As a Grants Advisor, you will play a key role in identifying relevant funding opportunities and supporting researchers throughout the grant application process. You either already have, or are willing to develop, in-depth knowledge of national and international funding programs and use this to match opportunities with the faculty’s research strengths.

You will provide expert advice on the content and structure of proposals, review applications, inform researchers about upcoming calls and funding conditions, and offer administrative support throughout the proposal development and submission process. You will act as the primary point of contact for researchers, department heads, the faculty board, and the faculty director on all matters related to grants and research funding. The position is embedded in the research cluster of the Faculty Office, where you will work closely with the finance department, the research policy advisor and legal officer. You will also collaborate with other grant advisors and funding professionals across the university.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a deep knowledge of the national and international funding landscape.
• Engage with researchers and research groups to understand their research interests and expertise and help identify relevant funding opportunities.
• Advise and coach researchers and research groups in shaping their research funding strategies
• Support the preparation of high-quality, well-structured grant proposals.
• Guide researchers through the administrative aspects of grant applications and submission processes.
• Organize workshops and peer feedback sessions focused on specific funding programmes and topics.
• Contribute to activities for the Central Research Office, such as representing the university in national meetings and co-organizing information sessions.

Your Profile

• A university degree, with a background in psychology, neuroscience, or a related discipline
• A PhD and experience in writing, evaluating, or advising on research grants are an asset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; fluent in spoken and written Dutch or willing to follow courses to achieve this level.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Analytical mindset and strong attention to detail.
• A flexible, collaborative, and proactive approach to work.
• Positive and open communication style, with a service-oriented mindset.