Last Date: 29.02.2024.
The candidate will be engaged in HORIZON European (EIC) Pathfinder Grant project to develop a new category of Organ-on-a-Chip (OoC) technologies by synergistically harnessing the versatile properties of paper, cell growth, mathematical modeling, and biosensors. In the PHOENIX-OoC Project, our research group at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, together with the Department of Biomedicine at the University of Basel, has been entrusted with the task of developing a joint-on-chip model with a specific focus on creating a platform for drug screening in osteoarthritis, a prevalent musculoskeletal disease with global significance. Finally, the Phoenix prototype will be used to monitor drug effects in real time thanks to integrated biosensors.
Your position
We seek a Ph.D. candidate for a fully funded project for 3 years at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel, Switzerland, under the Phoenix-OoC Pathfinder EU project starting April-May 2024. We are looking for a highly creative, resourceful, and motivated applicant to work on a multidisciplinary project at the intersection of high-performance bio materials, sensors, drug absorption and modeling, bio fabrication, and microfluidics. The main aims and objectives of the project are:
- Study the behavior of cells seeded on novel materials focusing on biocompatibility, tissue phenotype, and matrix deposition.
- Development of an osteoarthritic model based on a paper-microfluidic device
- Study of drug diffusion and cellular responses in real-time using electrochemical sensors
Your profile
- Preferably a master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Biotechnology, Chemistry or a related field.
- Background in microfluidics and/or biomaterials, and/or tissue engineering, and/or electrochemistry.
- Solid understanding of cell culture techniques, biocompatibility assays, electrochemistry, and biosensors.
- Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD), and programming software
- Experience with analytical and computational modeling of fluid transport phenomena
- Experience with photolithography and soft lithography is a plus, together with the design, fabrication, and use of Organ-on-chip devices
- Experience with cell culture for advanced 3D models, confocal microscopy, and the preparation and handling of hydrogel-based biomaterials is advantageous
- Independent thinking, ambition, problem-solving attitude, focus on discovery, and dedication to high-quality research.
- A solid knowledge of written and spoken English is mandatory; knowledge of other Swiss languages is a plus.
- Team player, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to thrive in a diverse, multidisciplinary environment.
We offer you
The successful candidate will become an integral part of the Department of Biomedical Engineering (DBE) at the University of Basel, a vibrant and interdisciplinary department boasting experts in Bioengineering, Medicine, Robotics, Navigation, and Additive Manufacturing. This unique opportunity within the project will immerse the candidate in an international consortium, collaborating with esteemed institutions such as the University of Rome Torvergata (Italy), IBEC Barcelona (Spain), Novi Sad University (Serbia), Upsala University (Sweden), and a cutting-edge Startup Company (Italy). In addition to a competitive stipend, the position grants access to state-of-the-art research facilities and opportunities to showcase findings at prestigious international conferences. The successful candidate will work alongside a collaborative team of friendly and inspiring researchers, biomedical engineers, and surgeons, thus contributing to the development of cutting-edge medical device technologies. The infrastructure is state-of-the-art and brand-new in the new Innovation Park in Basel, offering an optimal environment for ground-breaking research.
Salary and social benefits adhere to the University of Basel rules, ensuring a comprehensive and rewarding package for the successful candidate.
Application
Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications by 29.02.2024. The application package should include the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic qualifications, research experience, and publications (if any).
- Motivation Letter outlining the candidate’s interest in the research topic and their suitability for the position.
- Copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
- Contact information for at least two academic or professional references.
Please email your application with the Subject: Ph.D. position_Surname to [email protected]. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview to discuss their research interests and potential contributions to the project.
We look forward to receiving your applications and welcoming a dedicated researcher to join our dynamic team in advancing the frontiers of medical additive manufacturing in tissue regeneration.
Department of Biomedical Engineering
Medical Additive Manufacturing Research Group (Swiss MAM)
Prof. Dr. mult. Florian M. Thieringer
University of Basel
Hegenheimermattweg 167C, 4123 Allschwil
