This is a 4-year full-time (1.0 FTE) PhD student position. Your project will focus on the induction and (materials-driven) guidance of the collagen type 2 network in the developing engineered cartilage tissue using natural and synthetic hydrogels, as well as on integrating the engineered structures with host tissue. Conditions related to damage to the musculoskeletal system are one of the main burdens to our healthcare system. Further establishment or induction of the collagen structure (or a synthetic replacement) in cartilaginous tissues is pivotal for developing innovative, durable and functional regenerative approaches for the treatment of the very disabling disorders of these tissues frequently seen in the clinic. You will be performing cutting-edge research and have access to state-of-the-art facilities through the Orthopedic clinic at the UMC Utrecht and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Utrecht University. You will be using 3D hydrogel processing technologies, such as (but not limited to) cell electro-writing (CEW) and laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT). You will perform evaluations using in vitro and ex vivo models. You will join the Research group at the Department of Orthopedics of the UMC Utrecht at the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht and closely work with the Department of Clinical Sciences at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Utrecht University. You will coordinate your work within an (inter)national network of collaborators while working in an ambitious, motivated, multidisciplinary team of clinicians, veterinarians, materials scientists, biologists, and engineers. You will co-supervise master and bachelor students during their internships, and teaching opportunities will be available. You will be part of the Utrecht Graduate School of Life Sciences and will receive training, supervision, and guidance for both your research work and personal/professional development, which will provide you with an excellent basis for an independent academic career.

The initial contract will be for one year, which will be extended to a total of four years upon successful assessment.

• You hold a Master's degree in biochemistry, organic chemistry, regenerative medicine or a related field.
• You have a strong proven interest in the extracellular matrix, biology and in vitro and ex vivo culture models
• You are curious, motivated, goal-oriented, eager to learn, and thrive in a multidisciplinary research environment. You can tackle challenges effectively when this requires a creative/non-conventional approach.
• You can work independently but also in a team. You can connect and collaborate with our partners.
• You can communicate scientific ideas and results effectively. Proven proficiency in written and spoken English is required.

The maximum salary for this position (36 - 36 hours) is € 3.536,00 gross per month based on full-time employment.

In addition, we offer an annual benefit of 8.3%, holiday allowance, travel expenses and career opportunities. The terms of employment are in accordance with the Cao University Medical Centers (UMC).

This position is hosted at the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht (RMCU), and you will be appointed at the Department of Orthopedics of the UMC Utrecht. Located at the Utrecht Science Park, the RMCU brings together the largest group of researchers in regenerative medicine in the Netherlands, who closely work together to translate scientific and technological discoveries into patient benefit.

The Department of Orthopedics at the UMC Utrecht is a global leader in developing and applying novel regenerative technologies, such as cell-based therapies, 3D (bio)printing, the application of biomaterials and controlled release systems, and novel imaging modalities.