PhD in Cell-Matrix Interactions in Dynamic Hydrogels

Maastricht University; Maastricht; On-site; EUR 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Maastricht University in Maastricht is seeking a researcher to join the BioMatt group within MERLN's IBE Department. The role focuses on designing supramolecular hydrogels and establishing cell-culture workflows that probe cell–matrix interactions and mechanobiology.

The candidate will explore how stiffness and ligand presentation influence adhesion, morphology, and matrix remodeling, while collaborating on experimental design, data analysis, and publications.

Qualifications

• MSc or equivalent in Biomaterials, Polymer Chemistry, Tissue Engineering, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or closely related field.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture or biomaterials design, including aseptic technique and cell-based assays.
• Experience with 3D cell culture or cell encapsulation is highly desirable.
• Excellent command of scientific English (CEFR level C1).

Responsibilities

• Design and create supramolecular hydrogels with controlled biofunctionalization.
• Establish 2D and 3D cell-culture workflows in hydrogels and study mechanics and remodeling.
• Investigate how stiffness, ligands, and network architecture affect cell behavior and matrix production.
• Collaborate with team members; contribute to publications, conferences, and student supervision.

Skills

Cell culture

Biomaterials design

3D cell culture

Mechanobiology

Data analysis

Education

MSc in Biomaterials

Job description

Our goal: To establish predictive relationships between supramolecular hydrogel design and cell response, and to use these insights to create adaptive materials with two-way communication between cells and their matrix.

Your colleagues:

You will join the BioMatt group of Dr. Matthew Baker (https://merlninstitute.com/discover-merln/departments-and-groups/research-groups/biomatt-polymeric-biomaterials). The BioMatt group is part of MERLN's Department of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering (IBE), which develops biomaterials that actively interact with and guide biological systems. Within this environment, BioMatt combines molecular and polymer design with cell biology and tissue engineering to create dynamic materials for biomedical applications. Design and create supramolecular hydrogels with control over biofunctionalization via peptide cues. Establish robust 2D and 3D cell-culture workflows in supramolecular and dynamically reinforced hydrogels. Determine how stiffness, stress relaxation, network architecture, and dynamic covalent reinforcement influence cell adhesion, morphology, mechanotransduction, phenotype, and matrix production. Investigate how the molecular-scale presentation and accessibility of cell-adhesive or other bioactive ligands affect cellular responses, including cases where bulk material properties are closely matched. Study reciprocal cell-matrix interactions, including cell-mediated remodeling, deposition of extracellular matrix, and changes in hydrogel structure or mechanics over time. Work closely with team members to evaluate engineered cells within hydrogel environments and determine whether their activity can controllably build, reinforce, functionalize, or remodel the material. Contribute to experimental design, data analysis, publications, conference presentations, and supervision of students within the multidisciplinary BioMatt team.

Hafeez et al. Advanced Materials 2023, 35, 2207053. https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202207053 Hafeez et al. Advanced Materials 2023, 35, 2301242. https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202301242 Ruiter et al. Advanced Science 2022, 9, 2200543. https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202200543 Rijns et al. JACS 2024, 146, 17539-17588. https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.4c02980

An MSc (or equivalent) in Biomaterials, Polymer Chemistry, Tissue Engineering, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a closely related field. Candidates with an equivalent research qualification from an educational system without a separate Master's degree are also encouraged to apply; eligibility will be assessed individually. Substantial hands-on experience with either mammalian cell culture or biomaterials design acquired through an MSc thesis, extended research project, or relevant research position, including (cell culture) aseptic technique, experimental planning, and reliable maintenance of cell-based assays or (biomaterials) polymer functionalization, soft matter characterization, hydrogel formation. Experience studying cells in contact with biomaterials, hydrogels, extracellular-matrix models, or other engineered microenvironments. Direct experience with 3D cell culture or cell encapsulation is highly desirable. Interest in mechanobiology and in relating cell behavior to material properties such as stiffness, stress relaxation, ligand presentation, or remodeling. Prior rheology or mechanical-characterization experience is helpful but not required. The ability to document experiments clearly, analyze data critically, troubleshoot protocols, and communicate across disciplinary boundaries. Experience with extracellular-matrix deposition, cell-mediated remodeling, engineered cells, microbial culture, or engineered living materials is considered an advantage, but is not required. Excellent command of scientific English (minimum CEFR level C1), as English is the working language of the group.

A 12-month contract (1,0 FTE) with the prospect of a 3 year extension based on mutual satisfaction. A gross monthly salary between € 3.204 and € 4.051 (based on full-time employment of 38 hours per week). 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus. 29 vacation days (based on full-time), four additional days off (Carnival Monday and Tuesday, Good Friday, and Liberation Day), and the possibility to accrue up to 12 extra days through compensation hours. Freedom and space to shape your work independently and develop your ideas. A close-knit community of colleagues to collaborate and grow with. A solid pension plan via ABP, company fitness schemes, and access to various university sports facilities. An inspiring work environment in the heart of Europe.