Fixed-term for 3 years | Part-time with 65% | Salary according to TV-L E13 | European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI)

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.

To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific expertise in the Sánchez Lab at the European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI). Here, we are interested in developing new ways to target cancer cells – ideally with you on board!

Glioblastoma frequently recurs because infiltrating tumor cells remain at the resection margin after surgery. This project will develop biodegradable and swellable 3D-printed scaffolds for controlled local drug delivery to the postoperative resection cavity. Combining bioengineering, biomaterials, 3D microfabrication, and cell biology, we will use two-photon polymerization to optimize scaffold material, size, and geometry and evaluate their effects on drug loading, release in vitro and in vivo glioblastoma models in close collaboration with the group of Prof. Backhaus.

The EIMI is an interdisciplinary institute within the University of Münster developing imaging methods to visualize molecular processes in organisms, tissues, and cells. Through molecular imaging, we perform cutting-edge research in cancer as well as vascular, inflammatory, infectious, and neurodegenerative diseases. EIMI is located in the Multiscale Imaging Center (MIC), which brings together interdisciplinary research groups and provides access to state-of-the-art imaging technologies for the investigation of biomedical questions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Generate biodegradable, swellable 3D-printed scaffolds using two-photon polymerization
• Characterize drug loading, release, degradation, and cargo distribution using microscopy and quantitative analysis
• Evaluate drug release in microfluidic models, 2D glioblastoma cultures, and 3D tumor spheroids
• Analyze experimental data and contribute to interdisciplinary research collaborations
• Collaborate with research partners on in vivo studies, scientific publications, and conference presentations

REQUIREMENTS: 

• Master's degree or equivalent in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biotechnology, biomaterials, materials science, or a related discipline
• Strong interest in 3D printing, biomaterials, drug delivery, and cancer research
• Hands-on experience in 3D printing, hydrogel or polymeric biomaterials, or microfabrication is highly desirable; cleanroom experience is considered an asset
• Interest in developing new experimental technologies and applying them to biomedical research
• Ability to work independently and contribute effectively to an interdisciplinary research team
• Very good oral and written communication skills in English

WE OFFER:

• Salary according to TV-L E13, extra annual payment, and company pension plan (VBL)
• 30 days of vacation per year, plus two additional days off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve
• Access to state-of-the-art two-photon 3D printing, microscopy, microfabrication, and imaging infrastructure
• Close collaboration between the Sánchez and Backhaus groups and with additional clinical and scientific partners
• Career development in a multidisciplinary and committed research team, with a strong emphasis on mentorship, creative thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork
• A respectful and appreciative work environment within a diverse team
• Support and advisory services for health and work-life balance
• Additional benefits such as sports programs, job ticket, jobrad, company events, cafeteria, and emergency childcare

For inquiries, please contact: Dr. Maria Florencia Sánchez, mf.sanchez@uni-muenster.de

Apply now via our career portal.