Postdoctoral Researcher at the Division of Molecular Skeletal Biology Full-time

Postdoctoral Researcher at the Division of Molecular Skeletal Biology

Lund University, Faculty of Medicine

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.

Workplace description: 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 of our body but also consisting of our principal hematopoietic center. The formation of bone involves distinct stages, including cartilage, vasculature, bone, and bone marrow establishment. The Bourgine lab aims at compiling 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.

We are now seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a full-time fixed-term position, with a start date of 15th September 2026 or by agreement.

What we offer: Lund University is a government agency, which means you will receive special benefits, generous annual leave, and a favorable occupational pension. Read more on the university's website about working at Lund University: Work with us.

Duties and responsibilities: The postdoctoral researcher will work with the following tasks:

• 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.

Additional responsibilities include maintaining a lab notebook and similar administrative tasks, as well as actively participating in seminars and other relevant meetings.

Eligibility requirements: To be eligible for a postdoctoral position, you must have a PhD or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a PhD. This requirement must be fulfilled at the time of the employment decision, and proof must be submitted by that date. Priority will be given to applicants who obtained their degree no more than three (3) years ago. Exceptions can be made in cases such as parental leave, illness, clinical duties, union commitments, or similar.

Assessment criteria: At Lund University, postdoctoral positions are intended to provide opportunities for academic qualification. The position primarily allows for research merit, but also includes limited higher education teaching. Teaching may be included in the role. The main assessment criterion is scientific expertise in the subject area.

Other qualifications: The position requires:

• PhD in Biology, Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 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).

Merits include:

• One, or more, publication 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).

Terms of employment: This is a fixed-term, full-time position for two years, starting on 2026-09-15 or as agreed. Employment at Lund University takes place in Sweden, and you are therefore expected to carry out your work on site in Lund.

The appointment is limited to a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, in accordance with the collective agreement on fixed-term employment as a postdoc (Arbetsgivarverket). A postdoctoral position is intended as an initial step in a research career and an opportunity to deepen and broaden research expertise.

Application instructions: Your application should include:

• A cover letter describing your interest in the project, how you meet the required qualifications (including previous independent projects and technical skills), your research interests, and your future career plans
• A CV including names and contact details of two former supervisors
• A complete publication list (can be included in your CV)
• A copy of your diploma (PhD or equivalent)

We warmly welcome your application!