Postdoc Position: Growing Organoids in Synthetic Matrices

1. Introduction

Organoid research is on the brink of transformation. By replacing animal-derived matrices with fully synthetic, animal-free PIC gels, this project - led by Radboud University in collaboration with HUB Organoids and SBMatrices - aims to unlock the full potential of organoid technology for research and clinical applications.

2. Job description

Progress in organoid technology is hampered by the matrices that are used to grow the organoids. These matrices are typically composed of animal-derived basement membrane extracts, which suffer from lot-to-lot variability and have a heterogeneous and complex composition. These disadvantages compromise research, validation and the clinical application of organoid technology. Recent work showed that PIC gels developed at Radboud University form a suitable matrix for various epithelial organoids. This project aims to unveil the scopes and limitations of organoid technology in PIC-based matrices. The ultimate aim of the project is to introduce fully animal-free matrices into the market. Together with project partners HUB Organoids and SBMatrices, we aim to realise this goal within 2.5 years. SBMatrices will supply optimised matrix materials. HUB Organoids and Radboud University will screen for and optimise the PIC matrices to support organoid formation and expansion. Organoids of different tissues will be tested. The project will be highly collaborative between the three partners. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be expected to lead the organoid research at Radboud University.

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Your main task will be to start human patient-derived mature organoid lines at Radboud University. Different organoids will be available from our partner HUB Organoids. You will screen different PIC gel compositions to test expansion rates and organoid composition. PIC materials will be delivered by SBMatrices, but you will also be invited to generate your own cell culture matrices, using protocols developed in the Kouwer lab.

Radboud has excellent facilities within the Institute for Molecules and Materials, and broader, within the Faculty of Science. We have experience with in-house organoid growth in collaborations with the Radboud university medical center. There will be ample opportunities to collaborate with other researchers and with members of the 3D Biology research programme at the Radboud university medical center. You will also collaborate closely with scientists at HUB Organoids who are running parallel programmes and with researchers at SBMatrices to communicate hydrogel demands.

Our aim is to publish the results in highly rated scientific peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences. You will be expected to play an important role in dissemination activities.

3. Profile

• You should hold a PhD degree in Cell Biology, Biomaterials or a related field.
• You have experience with 3D cell culture. Experience with organoids is a plus.
• You have a proven affinity for biomaterials and chemistry.
• You have excellent communication skills and are open to new collaborations.
• You are pro-active.
• You have a good command of spoken and written English.

4. We are

The Kouwer Lab specialises in the design, preparation and use of soft materials. We have an excellent track record in the innovative design of hydrogels and their biomedical applications. The group consists of chemists who make new materials and new features in existing hydrogels and cell biologists who use the gels in their experiments. The group is part of the larger Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, in which a number of PIs collaborate and share facilities. You will be encouraged to actively participate in networking opportunities at the Institute for Molecules and Materials, the Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences and the Radboud university medical center.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of one year with the possibility of extension for another 1.5 years.
• Your salary within salary scale 10 depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus.
• We offer Dual Career Coaching. The Dual Career Coaching assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to Paul Kouwer. In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application. We look forward to receiving your application.

The first interviews will take place on Thursday 11 December. You will preferably start your employment as soon as possible.

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