PhD Candidate Bioengineering Autonomic Innervation & Optogenetic Control in 3D Tissue Models

Help us build the first optogenetically controllable model of sympathetic innervation in engineered 3D tissue, combining stem cell biology, genetic engineering, and advanced imaging. In this PhD project, you will establish iPSC‑derived sympathetic neurons within 3D hydrogel‑based tissue models and develop electrophysiological recordings to achieve a functional, label‑free readout of neuronal activity. Alongside this, you will apply genetic engineering to introduce optogenetic tools, creating complementary optical approaches for stimulation and readout within the same 3D environment.

PhD Candidate:
Bioengineering Autonomic Innervation & Optogenetic Control in 3D Tissue Models

• Our goal: The aim of this PhD project is to develop integrated 3D tissue models by combining iPSC‑derived sympathetic neurons with hydrogel‑based systems, and to establish functional, label‑free readouts of neuronal activity using electrophysiological and optogenetic approaches.
• Your colleagues: This position is embedded within our research group (Neural Engineering), part of the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, which focuses on tissue innervation and combines biofabrication, stem cell biology, genetic engineering, and advanced imaging to build physiologically representative in vitro models of the peripheral and autonomic nervous system. You will work closely with the PI and collaborate with colleagues across cell biology, bioengineering, and imaging within the group.

As a PhD candidate, you will pursue two closely integrated aims: establishing an iPSC‑derived sympathetic neuron population integrated into our 3D hydrogel‑based tissue models, and developing electrode electrophysiological recording within that same 3D environment to provide a functional, label‑free readout of neuronal activity. In parallel, you will apply genetic engineering, using our established Piggy Bac transposon system, to introduce optogenetic actuators, giving a complementary optical route to stimulation and readout (via genetically encoded calcium indicators and multiphoton imaging) alongside the electrophysiological approach.

What you do
The position includes the following responsibilities and tasks:

• Develop and optimize an iPSC differentiation protocol for sympathetic neurons
• Integrate sympathetic neurons into 3D hydrogel‑based tissue models
• Design and implement electrode integration within the 3D hydrogel environment
• Establish and validate electrophysiological recording protocols from the 3D innervated model
• Perform genetic engineering (Piggy Bac transposition) to introduce optogenetic actuators
• Characterize innervation patterns and neuronal activity using 3D confocal and multiphoton imaging
• Analyse and interpret electrophysiological and imaging data
• Present findings at lab meetings, conferences, and in peer‑reviewed publications

Are you ready to set the course for the years ahead? Then we’d love to meet you.

What you bring
We’re not looking for check boxes; we’re interested in who you are and what you bring. Do you recognize yourself in this?

You are a curious and independent problem‑solver who thrives on tackling open‑ended technical challenges. You approach problems with flexibility and creativity, adapting your strategy when needed and exploring alternative solutions rather than relying on a single fixed path. You are comfortable stepping outside your comfort zone and thinking beyond conventional approaches.

You work effectively both independently and within a multidisciplinary team, communicate clearly, and take ownership of your work. You are motivated to build, test, and refine experimental and engineering systems, especially in environments where the project scope is still evolving and there is room to shape direction, contribute ideas, and help define the approach.

Furthermore, to be considered for this position, you bring the following:

• MSc (or equivalent) in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Tissue Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• Prior hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture, including maintaining mammalian cells on a 2D culture dish and growing cells within a hydrogel
• Experience in a hands‑on laboratory or…