Postdoctoral Researcher m/f

Combining imaging biomarkers and multi-organ-on-chip technology for improved in vitro osteoarthritis models

JOB DESCRIPTION

University of Twente’s Technical Medical Centre is widely recognized for its excellence in development of new biomedical solutions and advanced biofabrication technologies. Here, various Departments work on pressing topics with high societal and biomedical relevance. Within the Department of Developmental BioEngineering (DBE; https://www.utwente.nl/en/tnw/dbe/), a vacancy exists for a postdoctoral researcher, to start on January/February of 2021, for the duration of 2 years.

Within the DBE Department, we have developed microfluidic or organ-on-chip platforms that emulate various tissues composing the articular joints. In this project, you will develop a humanized in vitro screening model for the articular joint tissues, cartilage and synovium, through the engineering and validation of a modular organ-on-chip platform. This state-of-the-art micro-technological approach will be combined with non-invasive imaging tool sets, to visually follow and quantify the markers characteristic of osteoarthritis progression in real-time.

You hold a PhD degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, or an equivalent field of research. A background in microfluidics and/or cell biology (-related field) is preferred, but not essential.
You have a strong interest in organs-on-chips, microfluidics, and molecular cell biology;
You have experience in cell culture, tissue engineering, or microfabrication technologies. Experience in molecular imaging will be considered as a benefit;
You have excellent analytical skills and an innate ability for solution oriented problem solving;
You are a team player with great communication skills;
You have demonstrable leadership potential and experience in the supervision of students;
You are fluent in English, both spoken and written.
 

You will be appointed on a fulltime position for two years, within a very stimulating scientific environment. The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues.

• Gross salary: ranging from € 3.353 to € 4.402 per month, depending on your background, relevant experience and qualifications, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement (CAO) of the Dutch Universities.
• A stimulating work environment in a recognized Centre of Excellence for osteoarthritis research.
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• A solid pension scheme;
• Minimum of 29 holidays per year in case of full-time employment;
• Professional and personal development programs;
• A high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other university staff is strongly encouraged;
• We strive for diversity and fairness in hiring.

Within the TNW Faculty (Faculty of Science & Technology) of the University of Twente circa 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 the TechMed Centre. 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.