This part of the project is about ensuring the biological properties and quality of the implant and using that information to improve the manufacturing platform. We start with cells expanded in large numbers, assemble them into “microtissues” (aggregates of cells), and further assemble those as we move towards a therapeutically-relevant size. At each step, it is important to establish the biological quality of the implant. The team is therefore developing a toolbox of destructive and non-destructive techniques that can assess cell phenotype. We are specifically seeking someone who possesses expertise on transcriptomics (including single cell RNA sequencing) and advanced light microscopy (incorporating automation) to contribute to this aim.

Candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant field or expect to receive their PhD shortly.

The desired candidate has the following skills and interests:

• Cell/tissue culture
• Cell biology and molecular biology assays
• Transcriptomics (preferably single cell RNA sequencing)
• Light microscopy (preferably experience with automated pipelines)
• Regenerative medicine and translational research

We are looking for creative thinkers who are prepared to take on highly challenging aims. The project will be very interdisciplinary, and will suit an ambitious candidate who likes a fast-paced environment. Excellent knowledge of scientific English for speaking, reading, and writing are required. Knowledge of Dutch is not required.

Fixed-term contract: 1+11 months.

The terms of employment of Maastricht University are set out in the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO). Furthermore, local UM provisions also apply. For more information look at the website https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/support/um-employees

We offer a 1.0 fte temporary appointment for 12 months. In case of good performance extension is possible for maximum 11 months. Remuneration will be according to standard salary levels, depending on education and relevant work experience, in salary scale 10 (UFO profile: Researcher; between € 2.709,- and € 4.274,- gross per month, based on a fulltime appointment) according to the collective labour agreement (CAO) of Dutch Universities, excluding 8% holiday pay and an 8,3% end of year payment.

Maastricht University

Maastricht University (UM) is the most international university in the Netherlands and, with more than 18,000 students and 4,300 employees, is still growing. Thanks to its high-quality research and education as well as a strong focus on social engagement, UM has quickly built up a reputation as one of the best young universities in the world.

Maastricht, where we are located, is itself a warm and welcoming city. The city is known for its fine cuisine, excellent shops and multicultural atmosphere. The founding city of the EU is an international hub with inhabitants from around the world. English is widely spoken, which has helped create a unique and vibrant international community. Thanks to Maastricht’s central position in Europe, it is only a short drive away from Belgium, Germany, France and the rest of the Netherlands. The city is family-friendly and possesses an international school and several excellent primary schools.

MERLN Institute

The host
The candidate will work in the laboratory of Dr. LaPointe at the MERLN Institute (www.merlninstitute.com) at Maastricht University. At MERLN, we are a collaborative, international, and interdisciplinary group with diverse expertise, including biomaterials science, chemistry, tissue engineering, and (stem) cell biology. We share newly renovated laboratory facilities with modern equipment. We have a long history as leaders in the field of tissue engineering and are particularly well-known for our orientation towards translational research. MERLN houses researchers from across the globe who have successfully navigated the transition of moving to the Netherlands.