Introduction to the vacant position:
The Biomaterials for Neural Regeneration group is looking for a Researcher in Training to join our multidisciplinary research team. This position is collaboration with the Northwestern University in Chicago.
Main tasks and responsibilities:
- Design and Development: Create novel ECM platforms, including hydrogel-based matrices with bioactive sequences and structured scaffolds, to mimic the physiological conditions of the spinal cord environment at various developmental stages.
- Characterization and Optimization: Perform a comprehensive biochemical, structural, and functional analysis of the developed ECM platforms using state-of-the-art techniques such as mass spectrometry-based proteomics, single-cell RNA sequencing, and electrophysiological assessments.
- Application in Disease Modeling: Utilize the optimized ECM platforms to advance the fidelity of iPSC-derived spinal cord models for studying neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
Requirements for candidates:
The ideal candidate would meet the following criteria:
Essential:
- Laboratory Experience and Technical skills: Experience working in a wet lab setting is highly recommended. Familiarity with biomaterials, stem cell culture, or 3D biofabrication techniques would be advantageous. Experience with advanced microscopy methods and molecular biology techniques for cell and tissue analysis would also be beneficial, but we are open to candidates who are enthusiastic to learn these skills.
- Teamwork and Communication: We value candidates who enjoy working collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team, have strong problem-solving skills, and can effectively communicate their research findings through both oral and written presentations.
Advantageous:
- A Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Tissue Engineering, or a closely related field is preferred.
- Animal Handling and In Vivo Studies.
We Offer:
- Number of available positions: 1
- Starting date: March 2025
- Gain hands-on experience with advanced biofabrication and biomaterials engineering techniques.
- Work in a cutting-edge research environment with access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
- Collaborate with leading experts in the fields of stem cell biology, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering.
- Opportunity to contribute to high-impact research with potential applications in regenerative medicine and disease modeling.
- Support and guidance in publishing your work in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences.
Working conditions:
- Full time 1- year Temporary contract.
- Measures to reconcile work and family life (parental leave, flexible schedule working hours, teleworking, 23 working days of paid holidays, 9 leave days for personal matters, among others).
- IBEC ensures equality of access to professional development opportunities irrespective of employment status, length at IBEC or other factors. The IBEC’s yearly training catalogue offers a wide range of training in technical and transferable skills including mobility grants and a Mentoring programme for predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers.
- Stimulating, interdisciplinary research and high-quality international scientific environment.
- Induction programme to facilitate incorporation at IBEC and additional support is provided for foreigners to obtain Visa-working permit and to install in Barcelona.
