PhD Candidate in Cell-Matrix Interactions in Dynamic Hydrogels

Maastricht University is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position within the MERLN Institute's BioMatt research group, focusing on cell-matrix interactions and mechanobiology as part of the ERC Consolidator project SupraValent. The successful candidate will design dynamic supramolecular hydrogels, establish 2D and 3D cell-culture workflows, and examine reciprocal cell-material communication. Expected duties include experimental design, data analysis, publishing scientific papers, presenting at conferences, and supervising students. The position offers an interdisciplinary training environment bridging polymer chemistry, mechanobiology, and regenerative medicine.

• Design and synthesize supramolecular hydrogels with tunable peptide biofunctionalization and mechanical properties.
• Establish reliable 2D and 3D cell-culture workflows utilizing dynamic hydrogel platforms.
• Analyze how physical cues such as stiffness and stress relaxation affect cell adhesion, morphology, and mechanotransduction.
• Investigate reciprocal cell-matrix interactions, including matrix remodeling and extracellular protein deposition over time.
• Collaborate with team members to evaluate engineered cells within custom hydrogel microenvironments.
• Document experiments meticulously, troubleshoot protocols, and critically analyze quantitative datasets.
• Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, and the supervision of junior students.