Research Assistant in Biomedical Microsystems

At Molecular Geriatrics, Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Rudbeck Laboratory.

The position is located in the Cellular Neurochemistry group led by Assistant Professor Wojciech Michno. The research environment offers internationally recognized expertise in organ-on-chip systems and droplet-based microfluidics and conducts research in collaboration with research groups at several Swedish and international universities. The research is supported by grants from prestigious funders such as the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, Science for Life Laboratory (SciLifeLab), and the European Research Council (ERC).

Recently, we have obtained joint funding together with the Tenje group at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, to further develop our technology towards industrial applications. Therefore, we are looking for a results-oriented and technically skilled research assistant who wants to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications in a multidisciplinary collaboration.

More information about the research groups can be found on the websites:

• Molecular Geriatrics (https://www.uu.se/en/department/public-health-and-caring-sciences/research/molecular-geriatrics/neurochemistry)
• Department of Biomedical Engineering (http://www.materialvetenskap.uu.se/embla)

Research Project

Three-dimensional cell cultures, such as spheroids, organoids, and assembloids (hereafter referred to as 3D constructs), are revolutionizing biomedical research by closely mimicking the natural architecture and function of tissues. A particular research focus in our group is to develop microfluidic systems to handle and study 3D constructs during their growth and maturation.

In a collaborative project, our laboratory has developed a microfluidic system for continuous oxygen measurement in single cells, the so-called Slip-O2-Chip. Based on this concept for analyzing oxygen consumption at the single-cell level, the goal of this project is to evaluate the possibility of scaling up Slip-O2-Chip technology for larger 3D constructs and, if possible, prepare Spher-O2-Chip technology for commercialization together with our partners.

Job Responsibilities

The work includes research in all phases of the project, from design and manufacturing of the microfluidic system to evaluation and publication of results. You are expected to be responsible for the manufacturing, characterization, and optimization of the Spher-O2-Chip technology, build a prototype of a portable system, and evaluate its potential for respiratory monitoring of 3D constructs.

You will particularly identify a suitable manufacturing process that enables loading and analysis of 3D spheroids and organoids in a user-friendly format compatible with industrial manufacturing processes.

You are also expected to use the system to study how cell growth and differentiation are affected by external changes in culture conditions for spheroid and organoid models of liver, heart, and/or brain.

In addition to research, participation in the communication of research results through scientific articles in well-established scientific journals is an important part of the position.

Qualifications

Master's degree in biological/chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, technical physics, nanotechnology, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, or equivalent.

We require documented knowledge and experience in the manufacturing and use of microfluidic systems, with particular expertise in UV lithography, etching of both silicon and glass, as well as casting and bonding of PDMS. You should also have documented experience with rapid prototyping tools such as micro-milling, laser ablation, and additive manufacturing of polymers. Experience in building experimental platforms for microfluidic systems as well as handling chip-to-world interfaces and software for controlling experimental equipment, for example via LabVIEW or MATLAB, is a requirement.

Very good oral and written skills in English are required.

Desirable/meritorious

Documented knowledge and experience in the following areas are meritorious:

• Microscopy and optics
• Culture and characterization of mammalian cells, especially iPSC
• Analytical techniques: DNA/RNA isolation and analyses with qPCR, digital PCR, as well as protein analyses with Western blot, ELISA, and immunostaining (IHC, IF, ICC)

We place great emphasis on personal qualities. You should be self-motivated and proactive, able to independently plan and drive projects, and possess good analytical skills and practical skills in handling experimental equipment.

You should also be pedagogical, structured, and able to work effectively both independently and in a team, as well as have an easy time collaborating and communicating with people from different subject areas.

About the Position

The position is a fixed-term employment for 12 months. The extent is full-time, 100%. Start date 2026-04-01. Location: Uppsala.

For inquiries about the position, please contact Assistant Professor Wojciech Michno ([email protected] (mailto:[email protected])) and Professor Maria Tenje ([email protected] (mailto:[email protected])).

Application should include

1. A short personal letter describing your interests and why you are suitable for the position
2. CV (max 2 pages)
3. Copy of master's degree
4. Name and contact information (address, email address, and phone number) of at least two referees

Applications should preferably be written in English. During the application period, we will continuously review applications and invite for interviews.

You are welcome to submit your application by February 11, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/42

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the most exciting workplaces in the country.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University here (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/).

The position may be subject to security clearance. A prerequisite for employment during security clearance is that the applicant is approved.

We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), Seko - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), ST (OFR/S) - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])