Postdoctoral Researcher Position on Redox Biology to study the effects & mechanisms involved in the effects of Atmospheric Plasmas & biomaterials on Tissue regeneration and Cancer therapy.

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative postdoctoral researcher to work in the field of plasma medicine. The primary objective of the research is to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in the stimulatory effect of cold plasma on tissue regeneration processes, as well as the mechanisms behind the lethal and selective action of cold plasmas on cancer cells. The ultimate goal of this project is to gain a fundamental understanding of the effects of atmospheric pressure plasma-treated hydrogels on redox biology and the molecular mechanisms involved in tissue regeneration and cancer cell death.

If selected, you will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment, in an expanding research line headed by Dr. Cristina Canal (https://plasmamedlab.upc.edu/en) at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya-BarcelonaTech, focused on Plasmas for Biomedical Applications. This position is part of the project “PlasmaBOOST”. This project deals with the investigation of the effects of cold atmospheric plasmas on liquids and biomaterials for bone, cartilage and wound healing.

You will be working in a vibrant research environment involving plasma physics, biomaterials science, and cell and molecular biology. You will have access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities, will have travel allowance, and will be given the freedom to develop your own ideas and collaborate within the group and with other groups. You will be expected to deliver top quality research, participate in paper drafting and in the supervision of PhD and Master students.

Applicants must have a degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or related disciplines and hold a PhD in a field relevant to cellular redox biology or cancer. Extensive experience in molecular and cell biology including cell culture techniques and generation of advanced 3D cellular models, and the related assay methodologies is essential.  Skills in flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, gene/protein expression (western blot, qPCR, etc.), ELISA, and microscopy imaging (fluorescence and confocal microscopy), and experience in in vivo studies would also be an advantage.

Prior experience with biomaterials, especially hydrogels is highly desirable. You will have published primary research papers (or have these papers in revision/in press) on relevant topics. Previous exposure to plasma medicine is highly desirable but not required. However, willingness and motivation to expand your expertise by reaching out to other disciplines is required. You are expected to be proficient in English.

Besides Skype interviews, it is possible to arrange on-site visits to the lab and the campus in Barcelona.

The starting date is flexible, up to the beginning of 2024. The initial contract will be for one year, and renewable.

The salary is competitive, in line with the Spanish national post-doctoral grants and depending on the career stage of the candidate. 

If you are interested, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible by sending a CV with a list of up to 3 references, a short (max one page) statement describing your past research achievements and research interests, and your academic transcripts. This and specific inquiries should be addressed to Dr. Cristina Canal (plasmamedlab@upc.edu) with “Postdoc redox biology-2023” in the subject line.