PhD student Melt Electrowriting Technologies

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to join our dynamic, interdisciplinary team and contribute to a project focused on advancing Melt ElectroWriting (MEW) technology for regenerative medicine. This position is part of the ERC-funded Re-COLL project (Advanced Grant, Prof. Malda). In this role, you will leverage MEW—a cutting-edge 3D printing technique that enables the precise deposition of microscale polymer fibers—to fabricate scaffolding structures that guide extracellular matrix deposition. The successful candidate will work on optimizing and innovating MEW processes, integrating them with complementary bioprinting methods, exploring the application of melt electrofibrillation, and characterizing scaffold properties to accelerate their translation into regenerative therapies, in particular those aimed at the restoration of articular cartilage tissue. You will engage in groundbreaking research and have access to state-of-the-art facilities through the Orthopedic Clinic at UMC Utrecht and the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht. You will also have the opportunity to co-supervise master’s and bachelor’s students during their internships, with teaching opportunities available. As a part of the Utrecht Graduate School of Life Sciences, you will receive training, supervision, and guidance for both your research work and personal/professional development. This experience will provide you with an excellent foundation for an independent academic career.

This position is hosted at the Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht (RMCU) and you will be appointed to the Department of Orthopedics of the UMC Utrecht. Located at the Utrecht Science Park, the RMCU brings together the largest group of researchers in regenerative medicine in the Netherlands, who closely work together to translate scientific and technological discoveries into patient benefit. The Department of Orthopedics at the UMC Utrecht is a global leader in the development and application of novel regenerative technologies, such as cell-based therapies, 3D (bio)printing, and the application of biomaterials.

• You hold a Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering or a related field.
• You have a strong proven interest in fabrication technologies, which should be specifically highlighted in your application letter. Prior experience with MEW technologies considered an advantage
• You are curious, motivated, goal-oriented, eager to learn, and thrive in a multidisciplinary research environment. You are able to tackle challenges in an effective manner, even when this requires a creative/non-conventional approach.
• You are able to work independently, but also in a team. You are able to connect and collaborate with our partners.
• You are able to communicate scientific ideas and results effectively. Proven proficiency in written and spoken English is required.

• A salary between € 3017 and € 3824 gross per month (salary scale OIO), based on full-time employment (36 hours). 
• Salary increase of 3% from July 2025, according to the collective labor agreement (cao). 
• Year-end bonus of 8.3% and holiday allowance of 8%. 
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 70% of the monthly contribution. 
• 100% public transport reimbursement. Are you coming on foot, by bike or by car? You will then receive a reimbursement of € 0.18 per km (by car up to a max. of 40 km one way). 
• Possibilities to develop yourself personally and professionally. 
• The option to select additional employment benefits in exchange for gross salary, such as purchasing a bicycle and memberships.