You will develop predictive computational models to capture the formation and heterogeneous structure of microthrombi, with a specific focus on predicting fracture and embolization risks.

Detached blood clots can block flow to critical organs, making the understanding of thrombus stability crucial for treatment planning. You will tackle this challenge by building a "virtual thrombus"—incorporating fluid mechanical effects, structural stresses, and agonist transport.

Your specific research challenges include:

• Building Digital Twins: You will use numerical tools, including COMSOL and the open-source HemoCell simulation package, to model cell-scale thrombus formation.
• Experimental Validation: You will not just code; you will validate. You will derive model parameters from experimental imaging and use inverse modeling techniques to measure microthrombi deformation under flow.
• Hybrid Research: You will study wall attachment using multiphoton microscopy, linking near-wall thrombus structure to flow embedding.

How do we support you? You will be embedded in the Computational Science Lab at the University of Amsterdam, but your work is inherently collaborative. You will spend a dedicated time at the Amsterdam Medical Center (AMC) with Prof. Ed van Bavel. There, you will learn to perform blood flow perfusion experiments in microfluidic chips and cannulated vessels, acquiring the data necessary to validate your models. Beyond this, you will be embedded in the ThromboRisk Doctoral Network with regular meetings, knowledge exchange, and tailored training events.

Tasks and responsibilities:

• Conducting independent research in computational biomedicine and experimentally validating your models;
• Collaborating within the ThromboRisk international consortium and attending network-wide training events;
• Writing academic publications for peer-reviewed international journals;
• Assisting in teaching courses and supervising Bachelor/Master theses within the department;
• Completing a PhD dissertation within four years.

We are looking for a candidate with a "builder" mindset—someone who enjoys understanding how things work from the bottom up, whether it's code or biological structures.

Requirements:

• A Master’s degree in Computational Science, Biomedical Engineering, Biophysics, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field;
• Strong programming skills (C++ or Python) and experience with numerical modeling (for instance, Finite Element Analysis or Computational Fluid Dynamics);
• A strong interest in—and willingness to learn and perform—biological experiments (microscopy, microfluidics);
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken;
• A flexible, proactive attitude and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.
• MSCA Mobility Rule: You must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date;

It is a plus if you have any of the following:

• Prior experience with inverse modeling or parameter estimation.
• Experience in microscopy or microfluidic lab environments.
• Experience with open-source codes.
• Experience using supercomputers.

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is as soon as possible, but no later than 31 October 2026. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,059 to € 3,881 (scale P). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Promovendus is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

As an MSCA Fellow, you also benefit from:

• Access to the extensive ThromboRisk training network, including workshops and summer schools across Europe;
• A generous mobility allowance (and family allowance, if applicable) in accordance with Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions rules.

Curious about our extensive secondary benefits package? You can read more about it here.