Postdoc position in engineered 3D tumor model

The Chair Engineered Therapeutics within Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics group at the University of Twente has a postdoc position funded by the Dutch Cancer Foundation (KWF).

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancer types with a dismal survival rate of only 8%. A major problem is that patients are diagnosed at late stages in which curative treatments are hardly possible. Lack of clinical samples from early stages of the cancer does not allow identify biomarkers to diagnose tumor at early stage. The project aims to develop novel engineered 3D tumor models that mimic the early stage of pancreatic tumor and identify early diagnostic biomarkers using this model and validate with clinical samples.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team, including Amsterdam University Medical Centre and international industrial partners. Your primary goal will be to develop advanced 3D tumor models with an engineering perspective using your knowledge and expertise in biomedical engineering and lab-on-chip systems. At the same time, you will be performing sophisticated biological assays, multi-omics approaches to validate and benchmark the models and find biomarkers. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the early diagnostics of this deadly cancer while advancing your career in academia.

Requirements:

For this position we are seeking an ambitious candidate with a doctoral degree in biomedical engineering, bioengineering, or a related field with experience in cancer biology. A solid background in developing 3D in vitro models, particularly in lab-on-chip technology, and 3D bioprinting tools is essential with a good understanding of cancer biology. Knowledge and hand-on experience in Computer Aided Design, MATLAB, bioinformatics, and biomarkers is highly appreciated. We expect to have excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset. The candidate needs to have a strong track record of scientific writing, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications in the field. You are fluent in English and able to collaborate with external parties in regular meetings and work visits.

Salary Benefits:

• Fulltime position for 2.5 years (or a part-time position (0.8 fte) for 3 years, to be negotiated)
• The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in a stimulating scientific environment.
• The salary amounts, depending on education and experience, minimal € 3.877,- to a maximum of € 5.090,- gross per month in case of a fulltime employment.
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• The number of holiday hours for full-time employment is 232 hours per calendar year.
• Professional and personal development programmes.

32 hours per week

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