Photosynthetic microalgae hold promise for sustainable production of high-value products, bioplastics, biofuels, and living materials. Flowing suspensions of microalgae cells form living fluids that physiologically respond to the environment and flow conditions. New insights into the flow dynamics of these suspensions are crucial to model algae blooms or develop new flow technologies for bioreactors.
The postdoc position is within the project “Flow4Algae.” This experimental project aims to understand the multiscale fluid dynamics of living microalgae suspensions, focusing on the interplay between flow conditions, cell physiology, and cell growth. The project will explore flow regimes ranging from linear shear flows in microfluidics to weak turbulence. You will design new multiscale experiments and analytical tools for these flow regimes. Experiments will be conducted in the BioFluids Laboratory at TU Delft using infrastructure such as advanced flow diagnostics (Particle Image Velocimetry, Particle Tracking Velocimetry, Laser Induced Fluorescence), microscopy (3D tracking multi-view microscopy and Fluorescence), rheology tools, microfluidics, and existing flow dynamics setups.
As a postdoc, you will join a vibrant, diverse team within the Flow4Algae project in the Process & Energy Department, which focuses on process and energy technologies for sustainable development.
RequirementsWe are looking for enthusiastic and inquisitive researchers who want to develop their know-how in a challenging academic environment. The successful candidate should have:
- PhD degree in a relevant field (Mechanical Engineering, Biophysics, Applied Physics, Bio process technology).
- Demonstrated competencies in one or more of these areas: Fluid mechanics, Active/Bio fluids, Experimental flow diagnostics, Microfluidics, microalgae research.
- Well organized with excellent time management skills.
- Excellent command of English and communication skills.
- An affinity with teaching and guiding PhD and MSc students.
- A proven record and interest in further developing experimental, modelling, programming, analytical and scientific writing skills.
- Ability to work in a team, take initiative and be results-oriented.
Delft University of Technology is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It emphasizes diversity and values different perspectives.
Faculty Mechanical Engineering
The ME faculty focuses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems. It offers high-quality education and actively engages in societal challenges.
Conditions of employment- Duration: 18 months (temporary).
- 40 hours per week.
- Salary and benefits according to the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- Pension: ABP.
- Option to compile an individual employment package each year.
- Health insurer discounts on supplemental packages.
- Flexible working week.
- Annual leave: 232 hours (38-hour week). Additional leave can be bought or sold via the Individual Choice Budget.
- Opportunities for education, training and courses.
- Partially paid parental leave.
- Vitality program supports healthy and energetic work.
Relocation to the Netherlands: TU Delft provides relocation assistance via the Coming to Delft Service, and offers programs such as the Dual Career Programme to support accompanying partners.
Application procedurePlease apply no later than 1 Mar 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- Cover letter stating motivation.
- Detailed curriculum vitae (including publications).
- Names of up to three professional referees.
- Summary of your doctoral thesis.
- List of courses and grades at Master and Bachelor level (in English).
You can address your application to Dr. Daniel Tam.
Please note:
- Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
- EU-funded project Flow4Algae (project number 101045302) within program HE / ERC.
- Apply online only; applications sent by email or post will not be processed.
- A knowledge security risk assessment is conducted during recruitment in line with GDPR; outcomes may affect the process.
- For information about this vacancy, contact Dr. Daniel Tam at the email provided, or the HR advisor at recruitment-me@tudelft.nl.