Early-Stage Researcher – PhD Student (m/f/d), SB25-0004

University for Continuing Education Krems The University for Continuing Education Krems specializes in part-time academic continuing education. As a public university for continuing education, it works with its expertise in teaching and research to overcome societal challenges and tailors its study programs to address them. With over 8,000 students coming from 99 countries, the University for Continuing Education Krems combines its many years of experience in university-based continuing education with innovation to provide outstanding quality in research and teaching at an international level. Situated 60 km from Vienna in the alluring world heritage region Wachau, Campus Krems is a highly attractive location. The following position is available to strengthen our team of the Health Sciences, Medicine and Research Department at the Faculty of Health and Medicine: Early-Stage Researcher – PhD Student (m/f/d) 30 hrs./week Advertisement No. SB25-0004 Project description The position within this project focuses on the development of a bioreactor for biphasic osteochondral constructs embedded with mesenchymal stem cells. The objective is to create a sustainable solution for osteochondral defects and advance the field of cartilage repair. This involves tissue preparation, scaffold mechanical characterization, and biotribological in vitro testing against living osteochondral plugs. This position is shared between two institutions , with 20 hours assigned to University for Continuing Education Krems and 10 hours to AC2T research GmbH – Austrian Excellence Center for Tribology , which is located at Wiener Neustadt . Your tasks Fabrication and analysis of biphasic constructs using techniques such as 3D printing and casting, and characterization of biomaterials through methods like histology and electron microscopy, alongside analysis of embedded cells (e.g., gene expression, metabolic activity, western blot) Designing and conducting experiments using the developed bioreactor Designing and conducting tribological experiments Publishing research findings in international peer-reviewed scientific journals Presenting results at national and international conferences Enrollment in and completion of the PhD program “Regenerative Medicine” , culminating in a dissertation Your profile We require evidence of the following qualifications for the application: A completed university degree (Master’s/Diploma) in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field (criterion must be met by 30 April at latest) Proficiency in basic cell culture and analytical methods, such as cell isolation from tissues, cell expansion, PCR, histology, and Western Blot Excellent English language skills (minimum B2 level), demonstrated through valid English language certificates or assessed during the application interview In addition, the following criteria are desirable: Experience in tissue engineering and the use of bioreactors Familiarity with statistical analysis techniques Proven skills in writing scientific texts, evidenced by (co-)authorship of published research articles Strong problem-solving abilities and effective communication skills The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team, with a strong sense of responsibility Command of the German language Your perspective Part-time position (30 hours/week) initially limited to 31st March 2028 20 hours/week assigned to University of Continuing Education (Krems) and 10 hours/week to AC2T research GmbH – Austrian Excellence Center for Tribology (Wiener Neustadt) Minimum salary of EUR 3,714.80 gross per month (14x) on a full-time basis Classification as a scientific project staff member according to § 49 VwGr. B1, Kollektivvertrag für Universitäten (collective agreement for universities) Innovative and modern working environment at Wiener Neustadt and Campus Krems Possibility of home office and mobile working (max. 42% of working hours) Very good opportunities for further education within the framework of our own study programs, extensive offer of workplace health promotion as well as the University Sports Institute (USI) Persons with disabilities who meet the required profile criteria are expressly invited to apply for this position. The University of Continuing Education Krems sees high innovation potential in the diversity of its employees and is committed to diversity as a guiding principle. We look forward to receiving your online application by 27 March 2025 via our online tool: Vacancies – University for Continuing Education Krems (donau-uni.ac.at) Your application should include: Cover letter (max. two pages) Curriculum Vitae Proof of degrees and transcripts Two writing samples (e.g., Master thesis, seminar paper, scientific articles, etc.)