PhD student position in Bioelectronic Microsystems

3 May 2023
Job Information

Organisation/Company

Chalmers University of Technology

Research Field

Technology » Micro-technology

Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country

Sweden

Application Deadline

25 May 2023 - 22:00 (UTC)

Type of Contract

Temporary

Job Status

Full-time

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by an EU programme

Reference Number

304--1-11768

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

At the department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience within bioelectronic engineering, we are developing implantable microsensors that can link external systems directly to the body's own electrical signals. In particular we are interested in adapting the properties of these implants such that they seamlessly integrate with the surrounding tissue. In this context we are starting a new PhD position which aim to develop better processes for microfabrication of intra-neural implants and solutions to improve their biocompatibility.

Project description
In the research group for Bioelectronic Microtechnology we focus on flexible microsystems that can be implanted in the body, for example as part of nerve-controlled bionic limbs or for direct coupling to signals in the brain. We develop microfabrication methods for flexible bioelectronics and with focus on improving their biocompatibility and longevity. Our research is positioned at the border between microsystems engineering, bioelectricity and biomaterials research.

The advertised PhD position will be part of a newly launched EU-funded project to develop new intra-neural implants. An intra-neural implant is like a thread of microelectrodes sewn through the nerve, so that the electrodes come into contact with the individual nerve fibers. In this way, it is possible to read nerve signals directly from the nerve so that a prosthetic hand can be controlled just like a normal hand, and also to electrically inscribe signals that give the prosthesis artificial sensation.
At Chalmers, we will particularly look at how new clean-room processes can lead to further miniaturization of such wires so that they can have 10 times as many electrodes as before. Among other things, we will work with e-beam lithography to develop better polymer-based bioelectronic microsystems. Furthermore, we will explore bioactive surface modifications which promote biocompatibility and tissue integration.

As a PhD student, you will work on developing these processes in a clean room environment, and investigate how miniaturization and different surface treatment methods affect the properties of the implant through electrochemical and biological measurements. You will work within the EU project BioFINE and participate in exchanges with project partners in Freiburg (Germany), Barcelona (Spain) and Ferrara (Italy). Your position will include departmental duties of up to 20%, where you will be involved in teaching or have responsibility for laboratory processes and equipment.

Major responsibilities
We are looking for a candidate with interest in pursuing a PhD within microsystems engineering. Suitable background is a Master of Science in Microsystems Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Biotechnology or equivalent. As a doctoral student, you need to be able to work in a structured manner, with an analytical approach and with attention to detail. You will need excellent ability to work independently and show initiative in working with others.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in a relevant field.

The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg . 
Read more about working at Chalmers  and our benefits  for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence . Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20230299 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV:(Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter:(Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Application deadline: [2023-05-26]

For questions, please contact:
Maria Asplund, ass. Professor
[email protected]

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   

Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!
 

 

Requirements

Research Field

Technology

Education Level

Master Degree or equivalent

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Excellent

Research Field

Technology » Micro-technology

Years of Research Experience

1 - 4

Additional Information
Work Location(s)

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

Chalmers University of Technology

Country

Sweden

City

Göteborg

Postal Code

41296

Street

Chalmers Tekniska Högskola

Where to apply

Website

https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/work-with-us/vacancies/?rmpage=job&rm…

Contact

City

Göteborg

Street

Chalmers Tekniska Högskola

Postal Code

41296

STATUS: EXPIRED