Doctoral Researcher (PhD) Position in Organ-on-Chip and Advanced In Vitro Models

Description

Offer Description: We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the Translational Organ Microsystems (TOM) Group at the Department for Functional Materials in Medicine and Dentistry (FMZ) / Center of Polymers for Life (CPL), Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU). The PhD project will focus on developing advanced immunocompetent human lung-on-chip models to investigate pulmonary inflammation, infection, and tissue injury. The research will integrate human airway epithelial and endothelial cells with immune cells, particularly neutrophils and macrophages, within microfluidic and perfusable culture platforms. The candidate will contribute to the development and functional characterisation of these models, investigating immune cell recruitment, transmigration, and pulmonary barrier responses under physiologically relevant conditions, including fluid flow and mechanical stimulation. The project combines organ-on-chip technologies, advanced cell culture, and microfluidics to better understand host-pathogen interactions and inflammatory lung diseases, with potential applications in therapeutic evaluation. Selected Relevant Publications For further information about our research and experimental platforms, applicants are encouraged to read the following publications: Doryab A. et al. (2026). Hydrogel-Based Airway-on-Tube With Perfusable Endothelial Lumen and Outward Epithelialization. Advanced Materials . https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202523588 Doryab A. et al. (2026). Breathing Immunity into In Vitro Lung Models. Thorax . https://doi.org/10.1136/thorax-2026-225369 Doryab A. et al. (2022). Real-Time Measurement of Cell Mechanics as a Clinically Relevant Readout of an In Vitro Lung Fibrosis Model Established on a Bioinspired Basement Membrane. Advanced Materials , 34, 2205083. https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202205083 Doryab A. et al. (2021). A Biomimetic, Copolymeric Membrane for Cell-Stretch Experiments with Pulmonary Epithelial Cells at the Air-Liquid Interface. Advanced Functional Materials , 31, 2004707. https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202004707 Further information about our ongoing research can be found at https://www.doryab-lab.com . Requirements: Research Field Engineering » Biomaterial engineering Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Research Field Biological sciences » Biological engineering Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Research Field Medical sciences » Medicine Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Skills/Qualifications Master's degree (or equivalent) in biomedical engineering, bioengineering, biotechnology, tissue engineering, or a closely related field. Strong background in advanced human in vitro models, organ-on-chip technologies, or microfluidic cell culture systems. Practical experience in mammalian cell culture and experimental laboratory research. Familiarity with cellular and tissue characterisation techniques, such as immunofluorescence, microscopy, and functional assays. Good written and spoken English. Strong motivation for interdisciplinary research and the ability to work independently and within a team. Specific Requirements Demonstrated hands-on experience in the following: organ-on-chip platforms, microfluidic cell culture systems, or advanced microphysiological in vitro models. Practical experience in mammalian cell culture is essential. Experience in designing, developing, or experimentally operating advanced in vitro models, rather than only theoretical knowledge. Experience with pulmonary in vitro models, epithelial/endothelial barriers, air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures, or perfusion-based systems is highly desirable. Candidates should clearly describe their relevant experimental experience and personal contributions in their motivation letter. Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent Research Field Engineering » Biomaterial engineeringEngineering » Biomedical engineeringBiological sciences » Biological engineering Additional Information: Benefits Fully funded PhD po

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Source: euraxess.ec.europa.eu