PhD student (f/m/x) in the project "Biomechanics on a chip"
From May 1, 2026, part-time (75%), fixed-term for the duration of the project (36 months) Klinik für Orthopädie, Unfallchirurgie und Rehabilitative Medizin

The process of ageing in humans leads to a functional deficit in many organs and tissues including bone, thus leading to diminished bone density and tissue quality thus increasing overall frailty. In bone, osteoblasts and osteocytes are key players in the process of mechanotransduction, meaning the translation of the physical cue mechanical loading into biological responses such as bone formation or resorption. In the course of the present project, that is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), it is planned to create a biphasic organoid to enable investigations on the cellular crosstalk related to the process of mechanotransduction. This organoid will be cultured in a complex microphysiological bioreactor that allows for culture under defined conditions (oxygen saturation, mechanical loading, perfusion). In cooperation with our partner the TU-Dresden, organoids will be created using cells from young and aged donors. This will enable the direct comparison of the cellular cross talk under mechanical loading inbetween those two groups to provide insights into the process of ageing in bone and the downstream consequences for mechanotransduction.

Your tasks:

• Conduct experimental in vitro work, including work with primary cells isolated from human bone and bone marrow, and characterize these primary cells using various cell biology and molecular biology methods
• Establish data management for a project-related cell bank
• Support study coordination in recruiting cell donors
• Creation of a biphasic 3D organoid for the co-culture of osteoblasts and osteocytes
• Assembly and operation of a complex microphysiological system that allows for the simultaneous control of oxygen saturation, mechanical loading and perfusion
• Plan and document experimental work
• Write scientific publications in the course of your doctoral program

Our requirements

• Solid basic knowledge of cell culture as well as isolation of human primary cells
• Interest and experience in working with bioreactors, especially organ-on-a-chip systems
• Experience in analysis of cellular processes on a molecular level
• Basic knowledge of statistics
• Strong proficiency in English (spoken and written)
• Strong proficiency in MS Office
• Knowledge in the fields of 3D printing, 3D cell culture, and biomechanics
• Experience in culturing and analyzing cells of the musculoskeletal system
• Interest in engineering-related topics (measurement and control engineering, fluid dynamics, 3D CAD, electrical engineering) Coding skills (Python)

Your Benefits

Competitive compensation and cenefits: In addition to the collective wage agreement under TV-L (classification E13 depending on personal qualifications), Universitätsmedizin Greifswald offers attractive benefits such as company pension schemes and employee discounts.
Professional development opportunities: Regular training and development programs are offered to support personal and professional growth, keeping employees up-to-date with the latest research and technology.
Interdisciplinary collaboration : Our employees have the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts from various disciplines, benefiting from an interdisciplinary approach in research and practice.
Research encouragement: Universitätsmedizin Greifswald actively supports your research projects, providing resources and infrastructure for developing innovative ideas and their implementation.
Work-Life balance: Universitätsmedizin Greifswald advocates for a balanced work-life approach, offering flexible working hours and health promotion programs like the cooperation with Hansefit GmbH. Our family office assists you with your search for accommodation and any questions related to the topic of balancing family and work.
Hanseatic location: Greifswald is a charming university town near the Baltic Sea, known for its high quality of life, diverse cultural offerings, and historically rich surroundings for work and leisure.

Welcome ...

...to the University Medicine Greifswald – where innovation meets tradition and together we shape the future of healthcare. We are proud of our diverse team of professionals who are passionately dedicated to excellent patient care, research, and teaching. If you want to be part of a dynamic and inspiring environment where your ideas and commitment are valued, then you are in the right place with us. Apply easily by March 1st, 2026 directly via the "Apply Now" button. We look forward to meeting you!

Contact

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