PhD Position in vivo Biofabrication Technologies
The laboratory of Prof. Dr. Daniela Duarte Campos at the Center for Molecular Biology (ZMBH) is seeking a
PhD student – In Vivo Biofabrication Technologies (f/m/d)
For participating in a BMBF NanoMatFutur grant focused on the development of a new in vivo bioprinting technology to fabricate human corneal tissue directly at the operating room).
Corneal damage as a result of injury, infection or hereditary corneal defects can cause pain, blurred vision and eventually blindness. When corneal damage and vision problems cannot be corrected with non-invasive treatments such as eye drops, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications, corneal transplants are the ultimate treatment option. This project opens a new way of clinical treatment, for which currently only allografts are used. In short, our concept uses the patient’s cells, for example stromal keratocytes differentiated from bone marrow cells, and combines them with a hydrogel that is loaded into a bioprinter. After removing damaged tissue, the surgeon will print the cell-hydrogel mixture layer-by-layer on the patient’s eye to create a new cornea.
The Bioprinting Lab investigates biofabrication technologies and biomaterials suitable for in vivo and in vitro tissue and organ engineering, and their impact on the structure and function of natural and synthetic living tissues.
Your task will be to develop a new bioink that allows for in vivo bioprinting of corneal tissue. The work will involve a variety of techniques including but not limited to:
Design and construction of a new printer head and bioprinting set-up
natural and synthetic hydrogel preparation and handling
rheological and mechanical characterisation of bioinks
Your profile:
Master degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering or related disciplines
Passionate about tissue and organ engineering
Previous experience in CAD design, simulation software (e.g. ANSYS), 3D printing, hydrogel handling and/or bioprinting is desirable
Excellent achievements and English language skills
Motivation to work in an international environment as part of a team
We offer an international and attractive work environment in the Bioprinting Lab at the ZMBH. The salary is based on TV-L scale. The position is limited to three years. The position is available for immediate start.
Applications should be sent to Prof. Daniela Duarte Campos ([email protected]) in one single PDF-file that includes a letter of motivation, CV, copy of transcripts and name of 2-3 referees. We ask for your understanding that application documents received by post will not be returned.
Closing date for applications: February 11, 2022
Heidelberg University stands for equal opportunities and diversity. Qualified female candidates are especially invited to apply. Disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified. Information on the application process and the collection of personal data is available at www.uni-heidelberg.de/stellenmarkt.
