RA in Biological Validation of Engineered Structures and Materials

The project will involve preparing multifunctional structures and materials via surface modification and morphological corrections for testing in the biological environment, i.e. in a bioengineering setting. The experimental work will include both static and dynamic cell culture protocols, the latter using micro/microfluidics custom-designed assemblies, that together shall explore the bio-validation of engineered porous scaffolds, of various detailed topologies and/or materials, for their potential as surgical implants. Key Requirements: The candidate needs to have extensive experience working in:

• Aseptic techniques and maintaining a biological lab/working area.
  
  Analytical techniques to quantify viability, proliferation, differentiation and mineralization, including, RNA extraction;
• Application of analytical techniques such as qPCR and related standard assays; operation of equipment required for qPCR analysis,
• Characterisation of the substrate surface using microscopy (both optical and electron), as well as chemical analysis using X-ray methods (i.e. XRD and XPS).
• Data analysis of experimental outcomes
• Authoring and co-authoring of quality publications to disseminate the findings.
• A flair for learning new skills and addressing questions that span across different disciplines (i.e., engineering and biology, bio-chemistry, bio-materials, etc)
• Have a PhD degree in a related subject or equivalent experience
  
  Generous annual leave allowance up to 44 days (inclusive of Bank Holidays & University closure days)
• Competitive pension schemes
• A range of childcare support initiatives and benefits including childcare vouchers; on-site university nursery (with salary sacrifice scheme); and holiday play schemes.
• We offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies.
• BUPA Cash Plan (100 scheme)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticker loan scheme
• On campus parking with charging points for electric vehicles
• Fantastic range of sports facilities and preferential membership packages available