In this PhD position, you will do research within the project 'Restoring the structural collagen network in the regeneration of cartilage' (Re-COLL). In particular, you will focus on the development of an innovative cartilage tissue-on-a-chip system, enabling detailed investigations into the structural network of the tissue itself.

Your job
Tissue engineering (TE) approaches can be used to produce implants with a composition not unlike real tissues. However, their collagen-based matrix often lacks the intricate organisation that is imperative for biomechanical stability. Here, we aim to unravel the triggers that underlie the formation, guidance and integration of the collagen networks in articular cartilage and leverage biofabrication technologies to generate durable implants.

You will become a member of the Re-COLL research team, embedded within the Malda Lab research group within the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht. In particular you will contribute to the development of a novel cartilage tissue-on-a-chip system that will allow the investigations at the level of the structural network in the tissue itself. You will use this versatile set-up to gain insight into the (bio)chemical factors governing the collagen fibre formation process and their alignment.

You will be performing cutting-edge research and will have access to state-of-the-art facilities both through the Veterinary Clinic and the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht (which includes the Utrecht Biofabrication Facility). You will coordinate your work within an (inter)national network of collaborators, while working in an ambitious, motivated, multi-disciplinary team of veterinarians, clinicians, material scientists, biologists, and engineers. Further, you will co-supervise BSc and MSc 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 provides you with an excellent basis for an independent academic career.

• You hold a Master’s degree in (bio)chemistry, or a related area.
• You have proven expertise in (cartilage) extracellular matrix analysis and an affinity with regenerative medicine.
• You are a quick learner and you thrive in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• You are able to communicate effectively scientific ideas, foster collaboration and independent thinking.
• You are knowledgeable in your field and committed to keep up with the recent advances in the literature.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English is required.
• Experiences with tissue culture and self assembly processes is considered an asset.

We offer:

• a position for one year, with an extension to a total of four years upon a successful assessment, and with the specific intent that it results in a doctorate within this total period;
• a working week of 36 hours and a gross monthly salary between €2,770 and €3,539 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University has a number of schemes and facilities of its own for employees. This includes schemes facilitating professional development, leave schemes and schemes for sports and cultural activities, as well as discounts on software and other IT products. We also offer access to additional employee benefits through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage our employees to continue to invest in their growth. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

Universiteit Utrecht

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

At the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine we train the veterinarians and researchers of the future, provide care for animals and conduct leading and societal relevant research. That is what we are good at. We see that the health and welfare of animals, humans and the environment are interconnected. By sharing our knowledge and working together, we make positive impact, both nationally and internationally. Our 1,500 students and 950 staff members inspire and strengthen each other. Our engagement connects us. The drive to, from an integral perspective, make the world a better place.

At the department of Clinical Sciences, you will work alongside approximately 150 veterinarians and a similar number of support staff. Approximately two-thirds of the veterinarians are specialists in various disciplines; the remaining one-third consists of interns, residents and PhD candidates. Together we are responsible for the education of veterinary students, provision of clinical services to horses and companion animals, and both clinical and more fundamental research in the areas of regenerative medicine, locomotion, genetics and reproduction.