SHORT DESCRIPTION
IMDEA Materials is seeking candidates for a Research Support position to develop in vitro tissue models (lung, skin, bone, heart) related to ongoing projects in the Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine Group.
OTHER DETAILS
IMDEA Materials Institute is a public research organization founded in 2007 by Madrid’s regional government to carry out research of excellence in Material Science and Engineering by attracting talent from all over the world to work in an international and multidisciplinary environment. IMDEA Materials has grown rapidly since its foundation and currently includes more than 120 researchers from 22 nationalities and has become one of the leading research centers in materials in Europe which has received the María de Maeztu seal of excellence from the Spanish government. The research activities have been focused on the areas of materials for transport, energy, and health care and the Institute has state-of-the-art facilities for processing, characterization and simulation of advanced materials.
More information can be found at our webpage.
In vitro models are a key technology for the evaluation of novel biomaterials. 2D cell culture approaches are valuable for evaluating cytotoxicity, but lack the complexity of native tissues. Therefore, there is a need to develop more advanced 3D models. Our research involves the development and characterization of in vitro tissue models based on organ-on-chip devices, electrospun membranes, and/or hydrogels for the study and treatment of different diseases, focusing on epithelial tissues (airways and skin) as well as bone and cardiac tissue.
Activities for this research support position involve the synthesis and application of materials to enable 3D cell culture, including co-culture of different cell types, to support ongoing project such as BIOMET4D (https://materials.imdea.org/pr...) and CARDIOBOOST (https://cardioboost-cm.es/). For example, biodegradable metals and actuator devices will be tested for effects on cytotoxicity and cell shape/alignment. The researcher will carry out chemical synthesis, materials characterization (microscopy, mechanical testing), electrospinning and 3D printing, and cell culture (including characterization of the viability, proliferation, and phenotype of the cells as well as morphology and organization).
The candidate should have a Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Materials Science/Materials Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
A good level of English (both oral and written) is mandatory. The working language of the Institute is English. Full command of the English language is required in all positions.
The candidate should have experience from their previous research in at least one of the following areas: cell culture (with preference for experience with skin or bone cell culture), materials processing (for example, electrospinning or 3D printing), materials characterization (biodegradation studies, ICP-OES, electron microscopy, mechanical testing, etc.), organ-on-chip or microfluidic devices, confocal microscopy.
Basic laboratory experience in cell culture and/or biosafety training as well as experience with data/image analysis is desirable.
The candidate should have strong organizational and problem-solving skills as well as the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and international environment.
Interested candidates should include a motivation letter (2 pages maximum) with their application.
Mandatory requirements:
It is important that the candidate meets the requirements indicated in the call:
The position is supported by Young Researchers Programme of the Community of Madrid within the framework of the ESF+ Programme: Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) / Programa de Jóvenes Investigadores de la Comunidad de Madrid en el marco del Programa FSE+: Plataforma de Tecnologías Estratégicas para Europa (STEP)
Applications are processed upon reception. We encourage early application.
Applications are processed upon reception. The position might be closed once ten working days have passed since publication, so we encourage early application.
The working language of the Institute is English. Full command of the English language is required in all positions.
WHAT YOU WILL FIND AT IMDEA:
Stimulating environment where you can grow professionally.
IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to equal opportunities, diversity and the promotion of a healthy work environment and work-life balance. Female applicants are encouraged to apply to our research and technical positions. See our Gender Equality Plan here and our Code of Ethics here.
Besides on-the-job technical training, IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to training the Institute’s scientists and staff in “soft” or transversal skills. See the available training here.
Meet some of our alumni to see what it is like to work with us.