Chemical adjustments to PEG-based Anisogel to improve in vivo injections

Project description

As part of a multinational and multidisciplinary team, called “Mend the Gap”, the RG De Laporte aims to investigate the use of biomaterials for treating spinal cord injury (SCI) by injecting an anisotropic, soft gel, called Anisogel, into the site of the injury to serve as a bridge for growing nerve fibers. We will continue to design and optimize the Anisogel, bringing it closer to successful application in larger, most realistic models of SCI, with the help and support of our partners from the University of British Columbia (Vancouver, Canada). Furthermore, the project aims to collaborate with world leaders in the development and delivery of drug-based treatments, to realize an integrated approach that leverages the latest and most important research findings.

Your tasks and responsibilities

As a member of an interdisciplinary team of chemists, biologists, biotechnologists and engineers, you will be responsible for modifying the Anisogel polymer composition to improve injectability while maintaining the growth and alignment of neurite extension from chick dorsal root ganglions in vitro. Here, a good balance between easy injection, viscosity, gelation kinetics, and magnetic material orientation has to be achieved. You will be responsible for working as independently as possible on the topic, planning, designing, and performing necessary experiments as well as coordinating and evaluating appropriate analytical methods.

This is what the task offers you

• The possibility to complete your master thesis in an interdisciplinary project and team
• Insight into an exciting and innovative field of research
• Extensive supervision

Your profile

• You are studying chemistry, biology, biotechnology, biomedical engineering or a related field.
• You are motivated and interested in learning a new topic.
• You are motivated to work in an innovative and exciting research field.
• You are looking for insights into the development of biomedical materials.
• You have no issues with dissecting chick embryos for cell experiments.
• You enjoy constructive work and problem solving.
• You already have some previous experience in the laboratory.