Postdoc position: Development of polymer coatings to culture then release macrophages on-demand
Louvain-la-Neuve, Brabant Wallon
CDD
Temps-plein
Il y a 2 mois
Offer DescriptionA postdoctoral position in “the development of polymer coatings to culture then release macrophage cells on demand” starting in March 2024 (negotiable) is open in the Institute of Condensed Matter and Nanosciences of the University of Louvain (UCLouvain, Belgium) in close collaboration with Ncardia (Mont-Saint-Guibert, Belgium).Macrophages are a prominent cell type for cell therapies as they can enhance immune responses, and improve outcomes in a plethora of diseases, such as solid tumors, neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases, fibrosis, congenital immunodeficiencies, and infections. In this context, Ncardia has developed a protocol to produce macrophages from the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). However, a robust and reproducible production process is now required to create cell therapy products based on macrophages. In this context, the Bio and Soft Matter division of the Institute of Condensed Matter and Nanosciences (UCLouvain) will provide its expertise in the development of biofunctional polymer layers to elaborate stimuli-responsive coatings allowing to culture macrophages at large scale in bioreactors then release them on-demand, in gentle conditions to preserve their integrity and consequently their therapeutical properties.The postdoctoral project centers on the fabrication of stimuli-responsive copolymer coatings enabling the culture of macrophage cells then their release in mild conditions, under the application of an external stimulus.The successful candidate will design and conduct research experiments to develop such coatings and to test them towards macrophage culture in close collaboration with Ncardia. The job requires the ability to assist the principal investigators in establishing priorities to ensure efficient work progression, ensure liaison with other collaborators to guarantee success of the project, write high-quality reports, present results in an attractive way, and contribute to the daily management of the lab.RequirementsSpecific RequirementsThe candidate must hold a PhD in polymer or soft matter science or biomedical engineering or a closely related field, with an affinity for interdisciplinary science at the interface between polymer and biology and has to demonstrate a record of personal achievements. In addition, he/she has to have a good command (writing and speaking) of English.Specific requirements- Knowledge and prior experience in polymer chemistry and physical chemistry and biofunctional surfaces- Competences in biofunctional layers and cell culture is a plus.- Autonomous, team spirit, excellent interpersonal skills- The candidate should be highly motivated, determinate and result oriented- Strong organizational and project management skills- Skills in supervising the work of others- The ability to work effectively with people of technically diverse backgrounds- Strong written and oral communication skillsAdditional InformationWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Institute of Condensed Matter and Nanosciences - UCLouvain Country Belgium City Louvain-la-Neuve GeofieldWhere to apply WebsiteContact WebsiteSTATUS: EXPIRED