SHORT DESCRIPTION

IMDEA Materials is looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join a regional research initiative funded by the Community of Madrid. The selected candidate will work at the intersection of experimental biology, materials engineering, and computational modeling (digital twins). The project’s goal is to transform mechanobiology into a key engine of innovation in healthcare, deepening the understanding of disease mechanisms while paving the way for new therapeutic strategies and translational applications. This will be achieved through the use of cutting-edge technological platforms such as advanced in vitro systems, organ-on-chip models, and bioengineered scaffolds.

OTHER DETAILS

Ref. num. 2025-ME_PD-R2-292

Postdoctoral position in biological validation of mechanobiological platforms for therapeutic innovation

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.


Description

The postdoc will lead research on the biological evaluation of mechanobiological lab-on-chip and digital twin systems, with a focus on designing and executing innovative experiments. The work will include defining and optimizing in vitro models using diverse cell types and advanced platforms, as well as establishing correlations between applied mechanical stimuli, cellular responses, and underlying biological pathways and mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to decipher disease processes, propose novel therapeutic strategies, and harness mechanobiological cues for applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.


Requirements
  • Candidates should hold a PhD in biomedical engineering, biology, chemistry, medical science, biotechnology, or a related discipline.
  • Experience in cellular and molecular biology and/or tissue engineering.
  • Strong expertise in advanced cell culture systems (3D cell culture: organoids/spheroids, scaffolds).
  • Experience with mechanobiology techniques (mechanical stimulation, bioreactors, microfluidics) (Desired)
  • Good communication skills
  • Fluent English (written and oral)
  • Confident at being hands-on in the lab and an excellent self-starter
  • Quick learner and comfortable working in novel environments.
  • Ability to design, execute, and supervise experiments independently.
  • Experience in mentoring students and working in multidisciplinary teams.
  • Availability for incorporation in January 2026

Conditions

- Three-year contract with a first-year evaluation period.

- Salary depending on previous experience and credentials.

Project acknowledgment:

This job offer is part of the iCELLS-CM project (SYG-2024/TEC-1062) funded by the Comunidad de Madrid under the call PROYECTOS SINÉRGICOS I+D 2024.


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.