PhD in Brain-on-Chip Device Development

PhD Position in Brain-on-Chip Device Development for Studying Neuronal Development

If you are passionate about neural development and would like to leverage human pluripotent stem cell technology, nano and microfabrication, and 3D printing to develop Brain-on-Chip models to study neurodegenerative diseases and neural development, this is a position for you at DTU Bioengineering in the Bioanalytics group of Jenny Emnéus.

About the Position

Brain disorders (BDs) have become one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Despite the large number of affected patient groups, there are currently no cures or disease‑modifying treatments available. This PhD position is part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action Doctoral Network (MCSA-DN) VISI-ON-BRAIN. This network aims to use state-of-the-art micro/nano fabrication, 3D bioprinting, and human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) technology to develop Brain-On-Chip devices for modelling neurodegenerative diseases and neural development.

Responsibilities

• Develop dynamic scaffolds of different shapes and materials that adapt as organoid-like tissue expands.
• Integrate these scaffolds into microfluidic brain-on-chip devices and culture/differentiate cells within them.
• Integrate microelectrode arrays (MEAs) to study neural activity in collaboration with VISI-ON-BRAIN partners.
• Perform biochemical assays and immunocytochemistry to characterize neural development.
• Publish results in high-impact journals and present findings at scientific conferences.
• Engage in interdisciplinary training to build expertise across VISI-ON-BRAIN disciplines.
• Take part in the supervision of BSc and MSc students.

Qualifications

• A master’s degree (or equivalent) in Material science, Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Expertise in material science (e.g., additive manufacturing, photolithography), bioprinting, or organ-on-chip applications.
• Strong willingness to learn complementary skill sets.
• Experience in collaborative research environments.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A proactive attitude towards learning and applying new skills.
• Willingness to go to consortium members' labs for research visits.

Beneficial skills include hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture, basic knowledge of biochemical assays, basic knowledge of molecular biological techniques, and strong analytical skills.

About the VISI-ON-BRAIN Doctoral Network

The MSCA‑DN - VISI‑ON‑BRAIN brings together leading European scientists from academia and industry to train young researchers. It promotes an inter‑ and trans‑disciplinary approach, fostering collaboration and innovation. Participating offers unique opportunities including a 36-month Marie Skłodowska Curie trainee project at DTU Bioengineering, state-of-the-art research in an international consortium, expert training, and research training periods (secondment) in other consortium member labs.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must meet all MSCA eligibility requirements.
• Employment limited to 36 months.
• Mobility rule: Not resided or carried out main activities in Denmark for more than 12 months within the 36 months prior to recruitment.
• Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) requirement: Within the first four years of research career and must not already hold a PhD degree.

Recruitment Process

The process involves two interviews: a first online interview and a second interview, which may be conducted in person.

Salary and Employment Terms

Based on collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) and MSCA Doctoral Network funding rules. Monthly gross salary typically starts at approx. DKK 32,200 plus pension, depending on seniority. Employment period is 3 years.

About DTU

DTU is a leading technical university recognized for its research, education, and innovation. The Bioanalytics group at DTU Bioengineering has expertise in bioelectrochemistry, 3D printing/bioprinting, and cell/organoid-on-chip devices. DTU Bioengineering is located at DTU Lyngby Campus.

Application Procedure

Submit a complete online application by 1 May 2026, 23:59 Danish time, as one PDF file. The file must include:

• Cover letter of motivation (max 2 pages).
• Curriculum vitae.
• Grade transcripts and MSc diploma (in English) with official description of grading scale.
• Two letters of recommendation or contact details of two referees.

Key skills/competency

• Brain-on-Chip
• Neuronal Development
• Stem Cell Technology
• Microfabrication
• 3D Bioprinting
• Material Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Bioanalytics
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• MSCA Doctoral Network