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 fully funded PhD position, to start in the first trimester of 2022, for the duration of 4 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 explore on-chip single cell bioprinting using laser-induced-forward-transfer (LIFT) to engineer hierarchical, structured, and multicellular organ-on-chips. Specifically, using this approach an articular joint-on-chip model shall be created, which will include cartilage, bone, and synovial membrane tissues. This multi-disciplinary approach aims at emulating on-chip the pathological events typical for rheumatic diseases, such as inflammation and matrix degradation, ultimately supporting the development of drugs for rheumatic diseases.

• Hold a MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, or an equivalent field of research. A background in bioprinting, microfluidics, LIFT, and/or cell biology (-related field) is preferred.
• Strong interest in bioprinting, organs-on-chips, microfluidics, and molecular cell biology;
• Experience in bioprinting and tissue engineering. Experience in microfabrication technologies will be considered as a benefit;
• Excellent analytical skills and an innate ability for solution oriented problem solving;
• Team player with great communication skills;
• Demonstrable leadership potential and experience in the supervision of students;
• Fluent in English, both spoken and written.

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

• Gross salary: ranging from € 2.224 to € 3.128 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.