This PhD project is part of a collaborative research project of Radboud university medical center and University of Twente financed by the Netherlands foundation for scientific research NWO (https://www.nwo.nl/onderzoek-en-resultaten/programmas/ttw/open-technologie-programma/2019---17562.html). The aim is to develop a skeletal muscle generating patch for diaphragmatic hernia closure. The biodegradable patch will consist of biological and synthetic polymers, and will have tuneable strength, toughness and degradation rate. Upon implantation of the patch in a defect, skeletal muscle cell ingrowth will be facilitated by a radial pore structure and biochemical cues. At Radboud university medical center, a PhD student will conduct the biological part of the project, whereas the polymer chemical part of the project will be carried out by the PhD student at the University of Twente. Moreover, four companies, two clinical departments and one patient organization will be involved in the project.

The successful candidate has a background in polymer chemistry or biomedical engineering and is expected to develop into an independent researcher. Moreover, the candidate will mentor BSc and MSc students and work collaboratively with multidisciplinary team members. Excellent English writing and presentation skills are required.

INFORMATION AND APPLICATION

If you are interested in this position, please upload a letter of motivation stating your research experiences and interests, your CV, and a summary of your master/diploma thesis (not more than one page) by using the application button below.  

For more information about the position please contact Dr. André A. Poot, a.a.poot@utwente.nl

The University of Twente offers a stimulating work environment in an area of applied, forefront research. You will have a full-time employment contract for the duration of 4 years and can participate in all employee benefits the University offers.

The gross monthly salary starts with € 2.325,-- in the first year and increases to € 2.972,- in the fourth year of your employment. Additional the University of Twente provides excellent facilities for professional and personal development, a holiday allowance of 8% and an end of year bonus of 8,3%.
A high-quality training programme is part of the agreement.

The University of Twente. We stand for life sciences and technology. High tech and human touch. Education and research that matter. New technology which drives change, innovation and progress in society. The University of Twente is the only campus university in the Netherlands; divided over five faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. The University of Twente has a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out pioneering research. 

Within the TNW Faculty (Faculty of Science & Technology) of the University of Twente some 700 staff members and 2000 students are involved in training and research on the interface of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. Research, which enjoys a high profile both at home and internationally, has been accommodated in the multidisciplinary research institutes MESA+ and MIRA. The faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders.