AdresseThe PhD project will be performed in a unique international and interdisciplinary consortium of the JPI AMR project “TRA-COAT” within the MiCA lab research group of the KU Leuven Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems at the faculty of BioScience Engineering (www.micalab.be)
As part of this vacancy, you will be involved in a multifaceted research project aimed at the development and validation of A novelcoating for medical devices with dual functionality. The investigation will encompass the following key areas:
-Development of Novel Coating with Dual Function: The coating will combine a covalently bonded biofilm inhibitor and a reversibly bonded classic antimicrobial.
-Validation of Activity and Mode of Action: You will be responsible for conducting experiments and assessments to validate the resistance-proof activity and elucidate the mode of action of the novel coating.
-Development of an In Situ Biofilm Staging Assay: In addition to the coating development, you will be involved in creating an in situ biofilm staging assay, together with the Charité University Hospital in Berlin, Germany. This assay will be based on fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) techniques, allowing for the visualization of the coating's impact on biofilm formation.
-Validation of Coating Activity In Vivo: To complete the investigative process, you will be responsible for validating the activity of the novel coating in in vivo settings at TRANSfarm (the animal facilities of KU Leuven) and at the AO research institute at Davos, Switzerland.
This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in material science and microbiology, with a particular emphasis on the development and characterization of advanced coatings.
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Project
One of the most challenging problems related to implanted medical devices is the high prevalence of microbial infections. Previous studies showed that implant-related infections are often caused by biofilm forming microbes. In contrast to infections caused by free-floating microbes, biofilms generally increase the tolerance to antimicrobials and increase the risk for antimicrobial resistance development.
The TRA-COAT project aims to address the incidence of implant infections by developing A novel, resistance-proof antimicrobial coating with innovative functionalities, including antibiofilm activity and triggered on-demand release of classic antimicrobials. The focus will be on orthopaedic trauma implants and vascular grafts, but can later be extended to other implants.
The coating will combine a covalently bonded biofilm inhibitor and a reversibly bonded classic antimicrobial. The action of the inhibitor will reduce the slimy matrix production during biofilm formation which will allow the immune system to better remove the microorganisms. If biofilm should still remain, growth of the bacteria on the surface will locally trigger release of the antimicrobial, killing the pathogens.
The coating is designed to be resistance-proof. Indeed, the biofilm inhibitors are intrinsically robust to resistance and will enhance the effectivity of the classic antimicrobial. The local and time-restricted release of the antimicrobial will reduce the risk of resistance development and benefit the patient.
Profile
- We are looking for a motivated researcher who is a holder of a university degree.
- Candidate should have a particular interest in biomaterial and microbiology research.
- Since the project will be performed in an international, interdisciplinary consortium, profound interest in bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo research is needed.
- Candidate should be passionate about research with a creative mind-set and enthusiasm to take initiatives to explore innovative ideas.
- Candidate should have good communication skills in written and spoken English.
- Candidate is expected to conduct the project towards a PhD degree in a 4-year time period.
Offer
- A full-time 4-year doctoral position in a young dynamic and stimulating interdisciplinary research group to conduct research towards a PhD at an internationally renowned research university.
- An attractive fully funded salary for 4-years, including a number of additional advantages such as hospitalization insurance, eco-vouchers, reimbursement for commuting by public transport, inexpensive meals, KU Leuven bicycle, etc..
- The opportunity to develop scientific and personal skills. You will be embedded in a work environment with expertise from various backgrounds. Moreover, you will be supervised by well-trained scientists and receive thorough training in conducting research, presentations and writing. Ample networking opportunities will be offered through participation in conferences, workshops and collaboration with local and international research groups.
- A stay in a vibrant environment in the hearth of Europe. Leuven is an attractive European university city with a rich history and a lively atmosphere, for centuries a natural home for researchers and their families; the city was even awarded the title of European capital of innovation 2020 by the European Commission. English is very widely spoken in the city and its surroundings. Public transport is also well organized and widely available (https://www.leuven.be/).
Interested?
For more information, please contact Prof. Hans Steenackers via email: hans.steenackers@kuleuven.be
Interviews will take place in February/March 2024. Intended project start date: March 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.
An application requires a written solicitation, extended CV, contact information for three references and transcripts of academic records. English Proficiency Certificate might be needed if you have not obtained a previous diploma in a program taught in English.
The selection will be based on the comparison of the submitted applications, followed by an interview with the pre-selected candidates.
You can apply for this job no later than February 29th 2024 via the online application tool
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