PhD Student Infection Biology and Field Assisted Biofabrication

Develop and optimise 3D biofabricated bone model with immune cells Establish infection models with Staphylococcus aureus Introduce and study neutrophil-driven inflammatory processes Apply advanced analytical techniques (e.g. imaging, transcriptomics, cytokine profiling) Analyse and interpret experimental data Contribute to scientific publications and presentations

The AO is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization, a global network of surgeons, and the world's leading education, innovation, and research organization specializing in the surgical treatment of trauma and musculoskeletal disorders. We are home to people from all over the world, from different backgrounds, with diverse talents and specialist areas. What binds us together is our passion for excellence, our dedication to our mission of improving patient care, and our understanding that we are stronger together: we are one AO.

The AO Research Institute Davos (ARI) contributes high quality applied preclinical research and development within trauma and disorders of the musculoskeletal system and translation of this knowledge, as well as investigates and improves the performance of surgical procedures, devices, and substances to achieve more effective patient care worldwide. It fosters a close relationship with the AO’s medical community, academic societies, and universities and provides a research environment and support for AO clinicians.

This project (DONUT – Development of advanced Osteolysis Model drive by NeUTrophils) aims to further our knowledge on infection-induced bone loss by developing a novel human-relevant 3D in vitro model that integrates spatially organized bone constructs generated using Sound-Induced Morphogenesis, immune cell populations including neutrophils, controlled introduction of Staphylococcus aureus, and advanced molecular and imaging-based readouts. The project will enable mechanistic insights into infection-induced osteolysis and provide a platform for testing new therapeutic strategies.

• Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, biology, microbiology, or a related field

• Experience in cell culture and laboratory techniques (e.g. molecular biology, microscopy, microbiology)

• Experience in neutrophil handling and culture

• Experience in planning and executing research experiments

• Strong interest in infection biology, immunology, and/or biomaterials

• Excellent communication skills in English

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment

• High motivation and enthusiasm for research

• Additional desirable skills: Experience with 3D cell culture or tissue models

• Additional desirable skills: Knowledge of host–pathogen interactions or infection models

• Additional desirable skills: Familiarity with biofabrication, hydrogels, or biomaterials

• Additional desirable skills: Exposure to advanced imaging or omics approaches