In the Department of Zahnärztliche Werkstoffkunde und Biomaterialforschung (ZWBF), we are looking for a
Student (f/m/d) for Bachelor / Master thesis
Project description
Spheroids are three-dimensional structures consisting of one or several cell types clustered together. In comparison to 2D cell cultures, spheroids can resemble the in vivo situation more closely. Another advantage of spheroids is the formation of close cell-cell contacts and the avoidance of artificial support matrices around the cells. Therefore, the cells can self-assemble and build their own extracellular matrix around themselves which enhances differentiation and survival of the cells. For the production of spheroids, acoustic standing waves can be used. The acoustic radiation force moves the cells to specific locations in an acoustic field, where the cells then format themselves into spheroids.
Vascularization is essentially important for three-dimensional structures as the diffusion limit for nutrients and oxygen is around 200 µm. The vascularization within single spheroids could be achieved by co-culturing endothelial cells with fibroblasts in specific ratios and conditions.
Tasks
- Cell culture
- Handling of the acoustic setup and production of spheroids with this setup
- Tissue analysis: Stainings, microscopy, image analysis, functional assays (e.g. ELISA), immunohistochemistry
- The tasks and analytical methods applied can be adapted to your background and your interests
- The thesis can be written in German or English
Your contribution to the project:
You will produce cellular spheroids using a setup which creates an acoustic field. To achieve vascularization, you will try different ratios and conditions of co-culturing fibroblasts and endothelial cells within the acoustic setup. The work includes cell culture, handling of the acoustic setup and analytical methods. Together we might find answers to the following questions:
- How can we achieve vascularization of spheroids?
- Are the resulting vascular structures perfusable?
- Is this principle adaptable to tri-cultures with cardio-myocytes to produce heart organoids?
Requirements
- You are highly motivated
- You have a responsible and accurate way of working
- First experience in a cell biological lab is of advantage
- Background: Biology, biotechnology, biomedical engineering or related fields
Conditions
- A valid certificate of study
- For foreign students: valid residence certificate, work permit, registration certificate
We offer
- A friendly atmosphere with open communication and individual support
Application:
Please submit your application through our application portal, quoting “GB-P-50793”. The application deadline is May 17th 2025.
Contact:
For more detailed information please contact Mrs Mira Ritter, M.Sc.:
E-Mail: miritterukaachende
Telefon: +49 (0) 241 80 80931
We look forward to receiving your application!
This position is not gender specific.
The RWTH Aachen University Hospital promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Applications from women are expressly encouraged and if the applicant is suitable qualified, they will be given priority in accordance with the LGG. If suitably qualified, people with a registered disability will also receive priority.
Weekly hours are negotiable.
You should preferably use our digital application portal at www.karriere.ukaachen.de for your application. There you have the option of securing your documents in the electronic application folder to prevent unauthorized access. Applications that reach us by email to: bewerbung@ukaachen.de (this transmission path cannot be as effectively secured) will be transferred to the aforementioned portal and any accompanying documents will be disposed of in accordance with data protection regulations immediately after transfer. After the retention period has expired, the data in the portal will also be deleted. If you do not agree to a transfer to the Application portal your application cannot be considered.