Job ID: 122747
Postdoctoral Researcher – 3D Organoids & Neural Tube Morphogenesis
Position: Post-doctoral Position
Deadline: 31 May 2025
Employment Start Date: 1 June 2025
Contract Length: 1-2 years
City: Padova
Country: Italy
Institution: University of Padova
Department: Industrial Engineering
Description:
About the Lab & Research
The selected candidate will join the Laboratory of Developmental Bioengineering, led by Prof. Onelia Gagliano at the University of Padova and Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, and recently funded by an ERC Starting Grant. The lab focuses on the intersection of developmental biology, bioengineering, and advanced imaging technologies to study early embryonic development and neurogenesis.
Our research integrates stem cell-derived organoid models, biomaterials, microfluidics, and multi-omics to unravel the molecular and mechanical cues guiding tissue morphogenesis. We are particularly interested in understanding the self-organization of neural tissues and how these insights can be applied to developmental disorders and regenerative medicine.
About the Project
We are seeking a highly passionate and motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our cutting-edge research team focused on mimicking neural tube morphogenesis using advanced 3D organoid models. This project will leverage state-of-the-art technologies such as hydrogels, microfluidics, and stem cell-based approaches to recreate early neurodevelopmental processes in vitro. The goal is to unravel the key molecular and biomechanical mechanisms driving neural tube formation and its associated pathologies.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop 3D stem cell-derived organoidmodels to study neural tube morphogenesis.
- Use of hydrogels and microfluidic systemsto control and modulate the cellular microenvironment.
- Perform confocal and high-resolution imagingto visualize organoid development and morphogenesis.
- Integrate omics technologies to decipher the transcriptomic and proteomic landscapes of developing organoids.
- Contribute to manuscript preparation and present research findings at scientific conferences.
Essential Requirements & Skills
- PhD in Developmental Biology, Stem Cell Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field.
- Strong expertise in stem cell culture and differentiation.
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, western blot, RNA/DNA extraction).
- Hands-on experience with confocal microscopy.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
- Team spirit, flexibility, independent and time effective working capacity, eccellent organization, together with good communication skills and proficiency in English language.
Preferential Requirements
- 3D organoid culture
- Structural cell biology (e.g. Light Sheet Microscopy)
- Experience with omics approaches (RNA-seq, proteomics, metabolomics)
- Experience in cloning and gene editing (e.g. knock out, use of viral vectors, and cell lines)
Position Details
- Duration: The length of the appointment will be discussed during the interview process and will depend on the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
- Compensation: Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience.
Research Environment
Our research environment is highly interdisciplinary and dynamic, providing access to cutting-edge technologies in bioengineering, imaging, omics, and advanced biofabrication techniques. Additionally, we offer career development opportunities and collaboration with leading experts in the field.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit directly to Prof. Gagliano, onelia.gagliano@unipd.it, the following:
- A cover letter describing their research experience, skills, and motivation for applying.
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).Contact information for at least two references.
Join us in pushing the boundaries of developmental biology and bioengineering to unlock the mysteries of early neural development.