Postdoc Position in Kidney Organoids and Advanced Bioengineering; ERC-CoG NEPHRON

Postdoc position: kidney organoids and advanced bioengineering to join the ERC consolidator project NEPHRON

We seek a postdoctoral researcher to join our team at the MERLN Institute for Technology-inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University in the Netherlands to work on a European Research Council – Consolidator grant project NEPHRON (Nurturing Environment – Bio Printing Human Renal Organ Networks).

The postdoctoral researcher will conduct cutting-edge research focused on developing advanced in vitro models using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived kidney organoids. A key aspect of this work will involve integrating bioprinting and organ-on-chip technologies to create mature and physiologically relevant models. The researcher will join an intellectually vibrant, collaborative, and multidisciplinary environment that fosters innovation and scientific excellence.

• PhD degree with experience in one or more of the relevant fields (e.g., stem cell biology, developmental biology, tissue engineering, biomedical engineering, or related disciplines).
• Proven expertise in pluripotent stem cell (PSC) culture and differentiation, toward kidney lineage or organoid systems.
• Hands‑on experience with kidney organoid generation and characterization, including functional assays as well as molecular and imaging techniques.
• Familiarity with advanced bioengineering approaches, such as bioprinting or microfluidic systems for in vitro model development.
• Strong publication record and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, demonstrating excellent communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent proficiency in English; knowledge of Dutch is not required.

• Hands‑on experience generating and characterizing kidney organoids, including functional assays, molecular and imaging techniques.
• Experience with sequencing and related data analysis for organoid characterization.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to integrate multidisciplinary approaches.
• Familiarity with bioprinting or microfluidic systems for advanced in vitro model development.

• Position in a research institute with cutting‑edge biofabrication technologies such as bioprinting and a multitude of additive manufacturing technologies.
• Good employment conditions. The position is graded in scale 10 according to UFO profile Researcher, with corresponding salary based on experience ranging from €3 378,00 and €5 331,00 gross per month (based on a full‑time employment of 38 hours per week). In addition to the monthly salary, an 8.0% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year‑end bonus apply.
• An employment contract for a period of 12 months with a scope of 1,0 FTE, which will be extended up to 2 additional years upon a positive evaluation, for a total duration of up to 3 years.
• Flexible working hours and hybrid work options, including commuting and internet allowance.
• 29 vacation days and 4 additional public holidays, plus up to 12 additional compensation days.
• Excellent secondary employment benefits, including ABP pension, company fitness, and access to sports facilities.
• An inspiring work environment in the heart of Europe.

Are ready to become our new Postdoc? Apply now or no later than 25th January 2026
, for this position.

The application should contain:

• Copy of academic transcripts (PhD diploma, MSc transcript, BSc transcript)

Applicants can expect to hear from us within two weeks of the Final date to receive applications. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in brief video interviews. Those advancing to the second round will attend either an in‑person interview or an extended video call. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

March or as soon as possible.