Postdoctoral Researcher at the Division of Molecular Skeletal Biology (PA2026/2359)

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the world’s top universities. The University has around 46,000 students and 8,500 staff based in Lund, Helsingborg, and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand, explain, and improve our world and the human condition.

About the Workplace

The projects will be performed within the Cell, Tissue and Organ Engineering group led by Dr. Paul Bourgine. Bone is a complex organ offering structural and mechanical support to our body and serves as our principal hematopoietic center. The formation of bone involves distinct stages, including cartilage, vasculature, bone, and bone marrow establishment. The Bourgine lab aims to compile human-specific knowledge on these processes toward the development of innovative regenerative therapies.

Within the research group, we are committed to fostering a positive work environment characterized by respect and consideration in our relationships with one another. We continuously strive to create conditions that promote job satisfaction, professional development, and inclusion for all employees.

Responsibilities

• Development and optimization of a GMP-compatible hydrogel formulation.
• Rheological characterization and injectability/extrusion-force testing of the hydrogel.
• Design and validation of clinical-grade packaging (syringe/cartridge system).
• Stability, sterility, and release-criteria testing in collaboration with QA/regulatory colleagues.
• Documentation of protocols and SOPs to GMP/regulatory standards.
• Support to large-animal and rodent preclinical studies as needed.
• Maintaining a lab notebook and similar administrative tasks.
• Actively participating in seminars and other relevant meetings.

Requirements

• PhD in Biology, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field. This requirement must be fulfilled at the time of the employment decision.
• Priority will be given to applicants who obtained their degree no more than three years ago (exceptions for parental leave, illness, clinical duties, union commitments, or similar).
• Documented international research experience (e.g., part of the PhD, a postdoctoral period, or a research stay conducted abroad).
• Documented experience in biomaterials, hydrogels, or tissue engineering research.
• Strong laboratory and analytical skills, with the ability to work both independently and within an interdisciplinary team.
• Robust experience in 2D/3D cell culture of human cells.
• Experience in cartilage and bone tissue engineering.
• Rheology and/or injectability characterization of hydrogels or other biomaterials.
• Experience with the engineering of bone microenvironments.
• Good knowledge of English (written and spoken).

Qualifications

The main assessment criterion is scientific expertise in the subject area. The position primarily allows for research merit but may also include limited higher education teaching.

• One or more publications as first author in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Experience with human mesenchymal cell culture and differentiation.
• Background in biomaterials science and/or polymer synthesis.
• Experience with 3D printing/additive manufacturing.
• Experience writing protocols/SOPs in a documented, quality-controlled (e.g., GMP/GLP) environment.
• Experience with animal work (in vivo studies, handling, and/or surgical procedures).

Benefits

Lund University is a government agency, which means you will receive special benefits, generous annual leave, and a favorable occupational pension.

Schedule

This is a full-time position for two years, with a possible extension to a maximum of three years, in accordance with the collective agreement on fixed-term employment as a postdoc.

Pay

Employment at Lund University takes place in Sweden, and you are expected to carry out your work on-site in Lund.

Start date: 15 September 2026 or by agreement.