PhD Candidate in Programmable Tissue Morphogenesis Powered by Advanced Imaging Maastricht University in Netherlands

Maastricht University is seeking a motivated PhD candidate for a cutting-edge project in programmable tissue morphogenesis powered by advanced imaging. The position is based in the Department of Physiology at the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (FHML), and is embedded within the CARIM and MERLN research institutes. The research aims to advance tissue engineering by developing innovative biomaterials and imaging technologies to create self-organizing tissue constructs with significant clinical and societal impact.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team of experts in bioengineering, materials science, chemistry, and biomedical imaging, working in a collaborative and supportive environment. The PhD project focuses on designing and testing new strategies for building complex, functional tissues using advanced engineering tools. Key responsibilities include developing and optimizing experimental protocols, advancing microfluidic encapsulation methods, testing novel polymer materials, and employing state-of-the-art imaging technologies for detailed tissue characterization.

The candidate will work with cell- and compound-encapsulated microspheres, programmable biomaterials, and spatially controlled instructional gradients to engineer next-generation tissue constructs. The research has direct applications in fields such as cellular agriculture and regenerative medicine. The ideal applicant is analytical, adaptable, scientifically rigorous, collaborative, communicative, curious, and open-minded. Technical skills in polymer, microsphere, or biomaterial chemistry and applications, 3D cell culture and tissue engineering, advanced microscopy (such as multiphoton or Stimulated Raman Scattering), image quantification, and academic research documentation are highly valued.

However, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are considered just as important as meeting every technical requirement. Maastricht University offers a 12-month contract with the prospect of a 3-year extension upon positive evaluation (1.0 FTE). The gross monthly salary ranges from €3059 to €3881 (full-time, 38 hours per week), in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO-NU). Additional benefits include an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% year-end bonus, 29 vacation days (full-time), four extra public holidays, flexible working hours, commuting and internet allowances, hybrid working arrangements, 12 additional compensation days per year, a solid pension plan via ABP, and access to extensive sports and wellness facilities.

The university also provides ample opportunities for professional and personal development through a wide range of training programmes. The Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (FHML) at Maastricht University is dedicated to healthy living, focusing on prevention, health preservation, and health promotion, in close collaboration with the Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+). The Department of Physiology works closely with the MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, combining expertise in bioengineering, materials science, and advanced imaging to develop transformative strategies in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Maastricht University is an international, open, and engaged institution with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The university encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and strives to create a supportive and innovative research community. The application deadline is 16 November 2025, with interviews scheduled for late November and early December 2025. For more information or questions about the position, candidates can contact Dr. Daniel Molin or Dr.

Nynke van den Akker via the provided email addresses. Applications should be submitted online via the Academic Transfer portal.