Doctoral Position on Mechanobiology: KU Leuven’s MAtrix / Mechanobiology & Tissue Engineering research group is seeking a dedicated Ph.D. candidate to join their pioneering efforts in investigating cellular forces’ roles in microvascular formation and function. This position focuses on advancing vessel-on-a-chip technology to study the dynamic interactions between endothelial cells and pericytes, contributing to microvascular disease research and therapeutic development.
Doctoral Position on Mechanobiology of Bioengineered Microvascular Networks
Designation:
Ph.D. Researcher
Research Area:
Mechanobiology, Bioengineering, Microvascular Networks
Location:
Leuven, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, biotechnology, or a related field.
- Excellent academic record.
- Experience with basic cell culture techniques and optical microscopy, preferably in live cell imaging in 3D (confocal microscopy, fluorescence microscopy).
- Exposure to scientific computing (e.g., finite element modelling) and programming (e.g., Matlab).
- Strong interest in mechanobiology and mechanotransduction.
- Collaborative attitude, proactive research approach, creativity, and enthusiasm for research.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary and international research environment to:
- Develop and refine co-culture systems within a 3D microfluidic platform for studying endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes.
- Utilize force quantification methods to investigate the interactions of biochemical and biomechanical factors in CCM (Cerebral Cavernous Malformations) lesion formation.
- Collaborate closely with research partners, including Dr. Eva Faurobert at the University of Grenoble and various professors at KU Leuven’s Centre for Molecular and Vascular Biology.
- Contribute to broader applications in microvascular disease research.
- Engage in advanced methods such as 3D Traction Force Microscopy (TFM) for studying cell-matrix interactions.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should apply online via the KU Leuven application tool. For further information, you can contact Prof. Hans Van Oosterwyck (hans.vanoosterwyck@kuleuven.be), Dr. Jorge Barrasa Fano (jorge.barrasafano@kuleuven.be), or Dr. Jyotsana Priyadarshani (jyotsana.priyadarshani@kuleuven.be).
Last Date for Apply:
August 21, 2024
KU Leuven is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful working environment. Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged as the university values open dialogue and diverse perspectives for an ambitious research and educational ambiance.
For more detailed information about the working conditions, salary scale, and application procedure, please refer to the KU Leuven employment webpage.
Apply now to be part of a leading-edge research group at one of Europe’s most prestigious universities!
