PhD position in Biofabrication and Bioprinting for Regenerative Medicine

Overview

PhD position in Biofabrication and Bioprinting for Regenerative Medicine Project.

We are seeking an ambitious PhD student to join our multidisciplinary research team to develop innovative solutions for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. You will develop 3D tissue models using biomaterial and biofabrication approaches to explore organoid fusion mechanisms.

Title

Bioprinted organoid assembly to elucidate mechanisms driving large-scale tissue development

Supervisors

Dr Max Yavitt and Professor Tim Woodfield

Project outline

The generation of accurate, in vitro tissue models that replicate the structure and function of in vivo organs are essential to advance medical technologies and improve patient outcomes around the world. By generating physiologically relevant tissue models, we can more easily study organ development or disease progression, which then informs the development of more advanced and cost-effective therapies and treatments. Internationally, there is a critical need to scale up these tissue models, generating tissue constructs that match the size and complexity of whole organs. Towards this goal, our group has previously explored solutions involving the fusion of modular tissue units (spheroids, organoids) to achieve clinically relevant tissue architectures. In this project, we aim to develop 3D, in vitro models of fusion using patient derived organoids. As part of this project, you will develop biomaterial and hybrid biofabrication approaches, including (photo)lithography, melt electrowriting, and extrusion bioprinting, to facilitate organoid fusion, enabling investigations into the biological pathways that drive fusion of cellular building blocks composed of organoid units.

Research Group Overview

At the Christchurch Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering (CReaTE) Research Group, University of Otago Christchurch, we develop and utilise biomaterial and biofabrication approaches to solve critical challenges facing tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. With direct ties to the Christchurch Hospital (Te Whatu Ora Waitaha), we work closely with surgeons and clinicians to develop clinically relevant solutions, ranging from the elucidation of fundamental pathways to the translation of medical devices. Our research space houses New Zealand’s most sophisticated biofabrication facility, supporting state-of-the-art equipment for polymer synthesis and characterisation, hydrogel mechanical testing, 3D cellular bioprinting, microfluidics, cell culture, and imaging and image analysis. The research will primarily take place at the University of Otago Christchurch, a multidisciplinary campus recognised for its outstanding reputation for combining basic science and clinical health research. You will be working in the newly constructed Wai-Ora Building, which houses state-of-the-art facilities for laboratory and clinical research for biomedical sciences. Christchurch is a vibrant city based on the coast and close to the Southern Alps of New Zealand, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities locally, including, mountain biking, surfing, hiking, and skiing.

Skills required

• Applicants should hold an undergraduate and/or master's degree in engineering (mechanical/biomedical/chemical), biology, chemistry, physics, or related disciplines and preferably should have an 'A' grade average (or equivalent GPA)
• Excellent communication skills, intrinsic motivation and independence are essential
• Experience with experimental lab work, including polymer synthesis, biomaterial fabrication, 3D cell culture, mechanical characterisation, and imaging, are advantageous
• The applicant must be eligible for admission to the PhD programme at the University of Otago.

Opportunities offered

We are offering a 3-year, fully funded PhD project in the CReaTE Research Group at the University of Otago Christchurch, funded by the Royal Society of New Zealand Marsden Fund. This position offers a $35,000 per annum stipend including fees (approximately $12,000) for the duration of the 3-year PhD program. The start date is as soon as possible.

In line with our values, the CReaTE Group and the University of Otago encourage an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected.

To apply

Please provide your CV, a short (1-page) motivation letter, and the contact of 2 references.

Application materials should be sent to Dr Max Yavitt (email - max.yavitt@otago.ac.nz) and Professor Tim Woodfield (email - tim.woodfield@otago.ac.nz).

Useful information

• Graduate research at the University of Otago
• Scholarships at the University of Otago