ESR2: Uppsala University, Sweden
Development of extracellular matrix mimetic hydrogels and NIR probes for regenerative medicine
The ESR 2 will develop novel biorthogonal covalent crosslinking chemistry to develop extracellular matrix (ECM) mimetic hydrogel materials for regenerative medicine. The biorthogonal chemistries will be designed to modify biopolymers such as hyaluronic acid as well as to develop novel activated ECM metabolites that will be used to conjugate NIR probes. Such NIR dye labelled substrates will enable to visualize in situ ECM formation which will provide valuable information on tissue formation and remodeling. The candidate will be involved in conducting original research in biomaterial development, cell bioengineering, gene silencing experiments, and 3D cell culture.
Profile
We are looking for enthusiastic candidates with MSc or equivalent background in polymer chemistry, biomaterial science, organic chemistry or related fields. The candidate with experience in performing reactions on biopolymers, hydrogel preparation and characterization or cell engineering will be considered advantageous. Candidates with experience in organic synthesis, bioconjugation chemistry, cell culture, will be appreciated.
The Department of Chemistry – Ångström Laboratory conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 200 employees and has a turnover of 200 million SEK. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. At the department’s six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering programs and master’s programs. More information is available on our website.
The successful PhD candidate will be hosted at the ‘Translational chemical biology laboratory’ within the Polymer Chemistry division at the department. The candidate will work in an interdisciplinary environment involving organic chemists, biologist and clinical scientists. This will enable overall growth of the candidate with increased knowledge in an emerging field. The candidate will be trained to work independently, perform biomaterial preparation, gene manipulation in stem cells and evaluation of cells in 3D gels systems using various biochemical analysis.
Terms of employment
The rules about PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§1-7 and the university’s rules and guidelines.