PhD in Modelling-Driven Cell Engineering for Cultivated Meat – TU Delft

About the Position

This fully-funded PhD position (4 years) is within the Flack and Haringa groups at Delft University of Technology, part of the Cellular Agriculture Netherlands Open Calls Programme. The project aims to combine computational modelling with cell engineering to develop scalable cell lines for cultivated meat production. Cultivated meat – genuine meat produced from in vitro animal cell culture – offers environmental and ethical advantages, but unmodified animal cells grow slowly, are shear-sensitive, and prefer adherent culture. You will address these bottlenecks by creating computational tools (e.g., compartment models and CFD simulations) to mimic the heterogeneous environment cells experience in large-scale bioreactors. Using these models, you will design scale-down culture systems and engineer bovine satellite cell lines with improved phenotypes such as shear-stress resistance, metabolite tolerance, and metabolic efficiency. You will validate these cell lines first in scale-down systems and later in large bioreactors. The research involves collaboration with industrial partners and external experts. You will have flexibility to direct your own projects, learn new techniques, and supervise BSc/MSc students.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop computational models (compartment models, CFD simulations) of large-scale animal cell culture in bioreactors.
• Design and construct scale-down culture systems that replicate the heterogeneous conditions of large-scale processes.
• Engineer bovine satellite cell lines with enhanced phenotypes (shear resistance, metabolite tolerance, metabolic efficiency).
• Test engineered cell lines in scale-down systems and later in large bioreactors.
• Supervise BSc and MSc students; contribute to a collaborative, friendly research environment.
• Participate in the TU Delft Graduate School and Doctoral Education Programme.

Requirements

• Essential: MSc degree in cell biology, biotechnology, or a related biological science.
• Essential: Prior laboratory experience in molecular biology, cloning, and genetic manipulation.
• Highly desirable: Prior experience or strong interest in computational modelling or other dry-lab techniques.
• Desirable: Experience with mammalian cell culture.
• Essential: Strong interest in cellular agriculture / cultivated meat.
• Essential: Excellent collaboration, communication, and writing skills; proficiency in English (per TU Delft Graduate School requirements).

What We Offer

• A full-time PhD position for 4 years (initial 1.5-year contract with a go/no-go assessment at 15 months, followed by a 2.5-year contract).
• Salary from €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month (based on full-time, 38 hours/week) under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus.
• Enrolment in the TU Delft Graduate School with training in transferable, discipline-related, and research skills.
• Customisable compensation package, health insurance discounts, and a monthly work costs contribution.
• Flexible working hours; relocation support via the Coming to Delft Service (including Dual Career Programme for partners).
• Access to an inspiring international research community on a campus focused on global challenges (energy, climate, digitalisation, AI, smart mobility).

How to Apply

Apply online by 2 August 2026 (23:59 CEST) via the application system (no email or postal applications accepted). Submit:

• CV (max. 3 pages)
• Cover letter (max. 2 pages) – clearly outline your past molecular biology experience.

Address your application to Dr. Joshua Flack. Shortlisted candidates will complete a short task in the week of 3 August 2026. If you are unavailable that week, apply by 19 July 2026 and contact Josh by email to arrange alternative timing.

Start date: Envisaged for end of 2026 or January 2027.

Knowledge security: TU Delft conducts a risk assessment based on your motivation letter and CV during final stages of selection. For details, see the university’s knowledge security webpage.

Do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Original vacancy