The μOrgano Lab at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Tübingen and at the NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute is looking for a
Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) with a focus on innervation of Adipose-tissue-on-Chip models.
The μOrgano Lab focusses on the development and application of microfluidic platforms that mimic the physiological microenvironment of cells and tissues. These Organ-on-Chip models can be used to answer a wide range of medical, biological, pharmacological and toxicological questions without having to use laboratory animals. Previously, the µOrgano Lab has developed a variety of Adipose-tissue-on-Chip models that will serve as a basis for the projects.
Novo Nordisk is a multinational company headquartered in Denmark, has consistently been one of the most innovative pharmaceutical companies and seeks to pioneer advanced in vitro models for cardiometabolic diseases.
The collaboration between the μOrgano Lab and Novo Nordisk has the ambition to leverage cutting-edge science to innovative in vitro models, and utilize the technology to develop innovative therapies that can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Multiple joint projects aim at the development and validation of 3D adipose tissue models with increased complexity as well as tailored functional readouts.
Your tasks
The development and application of Organ-on-Chip models requires an interdisciplinary training and mindset. The position will play a crucial role in this collaboraive effort at the interface of academia and industry together with a team of other research associates and PhD students.
The scope of work includes:
- Designing, fabricating and characterizing tailored microfluidic platforms
- Isolation, culture, and characterization of adipose tissue associated cells
- Planning, conducting and analyzing assays using OoC models
- Evaluation of cell phenotypes and function on chip including innervating neuron’s activity and immunometabolic function
- Presentation and publication of research results
Candidate profile
- Completed PhD in natural sciences or engineering
- Comprehensive practical experience in (primary, stem cell) cell culture, microfluidics and microscopy
- In-depth knowledge either with focus on adipose tissue biology or innervation models
- Experience with Organ-on-chip is desirable
- Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary research activities (life science and engineering)
- Very good knowledge of English as well as a structured, independent way of working
What to expect
- Working within an multidisciplinary project and a highly innovative research topic
- The opportunity to work in an exciting collaboration at the interface of academia (µOrganoLab, University of Tübingen) and industry (Novo Nordisk)
- Highly motivated, competent, and multidisciplinary team with scientific and technical staff members
- Excellent technical equipment and laboratory infrastructure
- Work-life balance through flexible working hours
- Staff events and excursions
- Recruitment and remuneration are according to TVL (Tarifvertrag der Länder). The position is initially limited to 2 years.
- Employment is entirely via University of Tübingen; no employment relationship with Novo Nordisk.
For further information about the position, please contact Prof. Loskill by e-mail at peter.loskill(at)uni-tuebingen.de.
To apply, please send a letter of motivation and a CV including contact details for three references by e-mail to peter.loskill(at)uni-tuebingen.de (cc lisa.ickert(at)uni-tuebingen.de).
