PhD position Advanced polymeric membranes and dialyzers developing miniaturized bioh

Job description

Within the AOT group, we have a vacancy for a PhD student.

Patients with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) need kidney replacement therapy (KRT) to survive, but current solutions (dialysis, kidney transplantation) are insufficient. The majority of ESKD patients are dependent on dialysis which places a heavy burden on their lives. Removal of uremic toxins is inadequate. This project aims to develop a miniaturized extracorporeal device that combines artificial and biohybrid kidney functionalities, paving the way for an implantable artificial kidney device.

To achieve this, new types of artificial membranes and membrane dialyzers will be developed and novel cell‑culture protocols investigated. Studies of uremic solute removal from human blood as well as blood‑compatibility studies will be performed. The project is part of a larger consortium program, entitled Biohybrid Kidney XB, Health Holland.

As part of the PhD program, you will receive further education within the Twente Graduate School and various graduate education programmes in the Netherlands. You are also expected to actively contribute to the teaching program, e.g. by supervising BSc and MSc assignments and acting as teaching assistant in courses taught by AOT staff members.

• You have a Master’s degree, preferably with distinction (or international equivalent), in Membrane Science and Technology, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Preferably you have experience and affinity with renal replacement therapies, blood‑compatibility assessment, etc.
• You are motivated and enthusiastic about working on an interdisciplinary project.
• You can work independently and as a member of an international research team, while demonstrating a collaborative attitude.
• You are able to review and engage with interdisciplinary studies and are driven by curiosity. You have excellent analytical skills and an analytical mindset, excellent communication skills—written as well as spoken—and will be part of a dynamic, interactive research community where you are expected to contribute to the overall academic level.
• English language proficiency is a must. A written test and a scientific presentation may be part of the interview procedure.

• A full‑time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO‑NU).
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from €3 059 (first year) to €3 881 (fourth year).
• Benefits include a holiday allowance of 8 % of the gross annual salary, an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3 %, and a solid pension scheme.
• A minimum of 232 leave hours for full‑time employment based on a formal work week of 38 hours. A practical full‑time employment of 40 hours a week therefore results in 96 extra leave hours annually.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus.
• A family‑friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).

You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a suitable education and supervision plan.

Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before 30‑06‑2026, and include:

• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, and motivation to apply for this position.
• A Curriculum Vitae, including contact information for at least two academic references.
• A transcript of grades of both your BSc and MSc diplomas.
• Letters of recommendation (optional).

Questions regarding these positions can be directed to Prof. Dimitrios Stamatialis (d.stamatialis, phone: +31 53 489 4675).

The Advanced Organ bioengineering and Therapeutics (AOT) group consists of 3 research entities: (1) (Bio) artificial organs, (2) Biomaterials and regenerative medicine, (3) Stratified micro‑engineered systems. Its mission is to provide:

• Innovative technological solutions to patients suffering from chronic diseases, enabling a longer, better and healthier…