Research Assistant Position in Biomedical Microsystems

Research Assistant Position in Biomedical Microsystems

Uppsala University

Uppsala, Sweden

Research project

Three-dimensional cell cultures, such as spheroids, organoids, and assembloids (hereafter termed 3D constructs), are transforming biomedical research by closely mimicking native tissue architecture and function. A special research focus of our group is to develop microfluidic systems to handle and study 3D constructs as they grow and mature.

In a collaborative project, our lab has developed a microfluidic system for continuous oxygen monitoring of single-cells, the so-called Slip-O2-Chip. Building on the blueprint for single-cell oxygen respiration rate analysis, the goal of this project is to evaluate feasibility of upscaling our Slip-O2-Chip technology for larger 3D constructs and if so, prepare the Spher-O2-Chip technology for commercialization together with our collaborators.

Duties

The tasks within this interdisciplinary project include conducting high-quality research in all stages of the project, from the design and fabrication of the microfluidic system to the evaluation and publication of the scientific results. You are expected to be responsible for the fabrication, characterisation, and optimisation of the Spher-O2-Chip technology, assemble a prototype of a portable system, and evaluate its potential for respiratory monitoring of 3D constructs. Specifically, you shall identify a suitable fabrication process that supports loading and analysis of 3D spheroids and organoids in a user-friendly format, compatible with industrial fabrication schemes.

You will also be expected to apply the system to study how the growth and differentiation of cells is affected by external changes in culture conditions for spheroid and organoid models of liver, heart, and/or brain.

In addition to research, some participation in communication of research results through scientific articles in well-established scientific journals are also included as important aspects of the employment.

Requirements

This position requires a Master's degree, within biological/chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, engineering physics, nanotechnology, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science or an equivalent degree in a related field.

We require documented knowledge and experience in the fabrication and use of microfluidic systems with particular expertise in UV lithography, etching of both silicon and glass and casting and bonding of PDMS. You also need to hold documented expertise in rapid prototyping tools such as micromilling, laser ablation techniques and polymer additive manufacturing methods. Experience in building experimental platforms for microfluidic systems as well as managing chip-to-world interfaces and software controlling experimental equipment, through e.g. LabView or MatLab, are requirements.

We require good oral and written skills in English.

Additional qualifications

Documented knowledge and experience in the following areas is considered meritorious for this position:

• Microscopy and optics
• Culture and characterisation of mammalian cells, specifically iPSCs
• Analytical techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation and analyses with qPCR, digital PCR, protein assessments with Western blot, ELISA, immunolabelling (IHC, IF, ICC)

We attach great importance to your personal qualities, and you must be self-motivated and proactive, have the ability to independently plan and run projects as well as possess excellent analytical ability and skill with practical handling of experimental equipment.

You must also be pedagogical, structured and able to work effectively both individually and in groups, as well as be able to collaborate and communicate with people in different subject areas easily.