We seek a PhD candidate to join our interdisciplinary research team working in the field of regenerative medicine. The focus of our research is the study and development of effective and affordable biomaterials for repair and regeneration of damaged or diseased organs and tissues. We are interested in understanding the interactions between biomaterials and biological systems, and then using this knowledge to design and develop new biomaterials that are able to harness the regenerative potential of the body. Our approach is materials science-driven but we also extensively use tools from other fields, in particular micro- and nanotechnology to accelerate the pace at which new biomaterials are developed and to further enhance our understanding of their interactions with cells and tissues.

Specifically, the goal of this project is to develop a platform based on (droplet) microfluidics that is capable of high-throughput production of ceramic- and composite biomaterials for bone regeneration, followed by a screen of their interactions with cells and tissues. 

The successful candidate will work together with one postdoctoral fellow and another PhD candidate, who are responsible for setting up the platform and production and characterization of biomaterials, respectively. The focus of the successful candidate will be on the biological evaluation of the generated biomaterial libraries using cell culture followed by relevant (high-throughput) assays of cell behavior, including proliferation and differentiation. An in vivo study in rodents on a selected number of materials is also a part of the project.

Candidates should possess a Master’s degree in biomedical science, biomedical engineering, (cell) biology or in a similar discipline and have the affinity with the field of regenerative medicine. Preferably, the candidate is experienced with in vitro cell culture and/or in vivo work. Candidates who have done a Bachelor’s degree in a country where it is the norm to directly enter a PhD afterwards (e.g. USA) are welcome to apply, but must demonstrate significant independent research experience. 

We are looking for creative thinkers who are prepared to take on challenging aims. The project will be very interdisciplinary and will suit a motivated candidate who likes a fast-paced, but highly supportive environment. Excellent knowledge of scientific English for speaking, reading, and writing is required.

Fixed-term contract: 1 + 3 years.

The full-time research position, with only optional course work, is offered for four years (1+3 years.), with a yearly evaluation. PhD candidates are paid a salary that starts at € 2.266,- gross per month in the first year and increases to € 2.897,- gross per month in the fourth year, according to the terms of employment of Maastricht University set out in the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO-NU). On top of the salary, there is an 8% holiday and 8.3% year-end bonus given annually and candidates who need to relocate may be eligible for compensation. For further details regarding the Collective Labour Agreement and Local UM provisions see www.maastrichtuniversity.nl > Support > UM employees.

Maastricht University is renowned for its unique, innovative, problem-based learning system, which is characterized by a small-scale and student-oriented approach. Research at UM is characterized by a multidisciplinary and thematic approach, and is concentrated in research institutes and schools. Maastricht University has around 16,300 students and 4,300 employees. Reflecting the university's strong international profile, a fair amount of both students and staff are from abroad. The university hosts 6 faculties: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Faculty of Law, School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience.

http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/

The successful candidate will join the Department of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering in the MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine (https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/research/institute-technology-inspired-regenerative-medicine). The MERLN Institute is a collaborative, international, and interdisciplinary group with diverse expertise, including materials science, chemistry, cell biology and micro- and nanotechnology. We share newly renovated laboratory facilities with modern equipment. We have a long history as leaders in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine and are particularly well-known for our orientation towards translational research.