Postdoctoral position in Development of Hydrogel-Based Cancer Drug Screening - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Postdoctoral position in Development of Hydrogel-Based Cancer Drug Screening

The Department of Medical Cell Biology at Uppsala University is a strong and international research environment. The department has more than 110 employees, of which about 25 are doctoral students, 10 postdoctoral fellows, and 40 researchers, teachers and professors.

Duties
We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious postdoctoral fellow to join our dynamic team, contributing to the development of screening strategies for context-dependent drug responses in biomimetic hydrogels. This opportunity centers around cutting-edge projects focused on increasing our understanding of how the extracellular matrix influences the diffusion, uptake and effectiveness of chemotherapeutic drugs. These projects involve the development of groundbreaking bioprinting technologies and innovative methods for the automated formulation, dispensing and analysis of high-throughput biomimetic hydrogel systems and downstream assessment of cellular responses. The project is multidisciplinary and involves collaborations with industrial partners.

Central to this role is demonstrated expertise in cell culture and method development. The applicant should have a strong background and extensive technical proficiency in cell culture techniques, PCR, immunocytochemistry, advanced microscopy and image analysis.  Moreover, a genuine passion for method development is essential, with a preference for candidates with expertise in bioprinting, additive manufacturing or automation in research. We believe that the technologies emerging from this project have the potential to advance drug development, and lead to improved 3D in vitro assays for a multitude of research applications, and hold promise for future clinical bioprinting applications.

We place particular emphasis on academic and collaborative skills, alongside a proactive approach. This position involves both strategic planning and hands-on execution of experimental work, data analysis, and scientific writing.

Requirements
PhD degree, or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD degree, in biotechnology, biomedicine, medical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related subject. The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Those who have obtained a PhD degree three years prior to the application deadline are primarily considered for the employment. The starting point of the three-year frame period is the application deadline. Due to special circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

We consider very high motivation and enthusiasm as fundamental prerequisites for this role, encompassing initiative taking and active collaboration with fellow researchers. Our research ecosystem is currently experiencing significant growth and establishment of close partnerships with both internal teams at Uppsala University and external collaborators.

Your ability to work both independently and collaboratively, together with your proficiency in the required areas, will be key to the success of this role.

In addition, the candidates must possess:

• Educational credentials: Evidence of expertise in cell biology and engineering, demonstrated through degrees, publications and other relevant qualifications
• A proven track record of experience in method development, preferentially in bioprinting, additive manufacturing and/or automation
• A high level of computer proficiency, particularly in advanced image analysis
• Exceptional organizational skills, and a high degree of motivation to excel in a dynamic research environment
• Autonomy: the capability to independently perform complex tasks with minimal supervision
• The ability to onboard and supervise new group members and students
• Excellent problem-solving skills, strong analytical skills, protocol development expertise
• Proficiency in scientific writing, and in summarizing results and data
• Very strong English communication skills, both spoken and written

The application should contain a short personal letter with a brief description of research interests and relevant experiences (1/2 A4) together with a full CV, copies of diplomas and transcripts, the applicant’s thesis (or a draft) and documentation from other to the position relevant experiences.

Please also submit two letters of reference or contact information of previous research supervisors.

Selection of candidates is based on qualifications, previous work experience, and personal suitability.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of two years according to central collective agreement. Full time position. Starting date as agreed. Placement: Uppsala.

For further information about the position, please contact: Johan Kreuger, 018-471 4079, johan.kreuger@mcb.uu.se

Please submit your application by November 23 2023, UFV-PA 2023/3883.

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