Job Description

Ihre Aufgaben



The PhD candidate at the UMG will work closely with the interdisciplinary SMACHONDRON partners to analyze a biobank of primary chondrocytes from SMA patients and to characterize corresponding bone and cartilage samples using high-resolution µCT, synchrotron imaging, and histology. The candidate will assess cell viability, growth, and differentiation profiles of patient-derived chondrocytes, and integrate these findings with 3D structural analyses of patient and mouse bone tissue. All imaging-based results will be validated through standardized histological and immunohistochemical methods.



Ihre Qualifikationen



Successful candidates with a master in Medical Informatics, Engineering, Life Science, or related subjects have a keen interest and strong background in imaging technologies, biology and data analysis. Experience in µCT imaging strategies, multi-modal data registration, 3D image processing as well as in cell culture and histological methods would be of advantage. A certified course to handle laboratory animals would be an asset. The applicant should furthermore enjoy cross-disciplinary work in physics, biology, genetics and medicine. A good command of English is a requirement.



Wir bieten



Competitive research in an inspiring, international and world-class environment Broaden your skill set by learning to apply cutting-edge technologies such as synchrotron phase contrast CT and handle patient-derived material, carry out cell isolation, and perform molecular characterization of SMA samples. Further training and career development opportunities; free in-house language courses A wide range of offers to help you balance work and family etc.

Einleitungstext



Members of the interdisciplinary project SMACHONDRON — PD Dr. Kai Böker (Department of Trauma Surgery, Orthopedics, and Plastic Surgery), Prof. Dr. Christian Dullin (Department of Cardiac Imaging), and Prof. Dr. Anna Hell, Head of the Pediatric Orthopedics Division at the Department of Trauma Surgery, Orthopedics, and Plastic Surgery at the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) — which investigates developmental, molecular, and clinically relevant alterations in bone and cartilage in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and aims to translate innovative therapeutic strategies into clinical practice, invite applications for a position as



PhD Fellow (f/m/d) for 3 years – multi-modal characterization of bone-cartilage interfaces



Within the collaborative project SMACHONDRON between the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) and Hannover Medical School (MHH), we will investigate developmental, structural, and molecular alterations of bone and cartilage in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Patient-derived samples will be examined using high-resolution µCT, synchrotron imaging, and histology in collaboration with MHH, while UMG conducts complementary cellular and molecular studies, including treatment-response analyses with SMN-enhancing therapies. This integrated approach aims to clarify skeletal pathomechanisms in SMA and support improved therapeutic strategies.