About the Project
Project description: Connective tissues such as ligaments, tendons and fascia are known to have remarkable capacity to adapt to altering loading conditions. This ability is used for the treatment of soft tissue injury, such as anterior cruciate ligament, Achilles tendon or rotator cuff injury, implanting so-called acellular tissues consisting mainly of collagens and other extracellular matrix. This is strongly related to the ingrowth of tenocytes (ligament cells) steering load-dependent tissue remodelling. The underlying mechanisms of the modelling are, however, to date largely unclear. A thorough understanding of these mechanisms will aid to facilitate soft tissue injury.
Aims and Objectives: Combined macro-mechanical stimulation of tissue scaffolds and nano-structural imaging using bio-Atomic Force Microscopy, using biological scaffolds.
Our candidates can expect from us a high level of individual support, an in-depth exposure to human anatomy / clinical / engineering sciences and a thorough training in cutting-edge methods in translational biomedical research. We are looking forward to receive applications from candidates with a B.Sc. Honours or M.Sc. degree (or equivalent, minimum requirement A-), excellent command of written and spoken English, an interest in a highly interdisciplinary and international research, flexibility and the ability to work in a dynamic and demanding environment. Domestic and international students are welcomed. Previous experience in tissue engineering and / or atomic force microscopy is preferential.
Applications will include
• A cover letter stating your interest in the position and how your research experience relates to the project
• A curriculum vitae
• A copy of your academic transcript including grades
• Names of two academic referees
Please see http://www.anatomy-biomechanics.com
References
Hammer N, Huster D, Fritsch S, Hadrich C, Koch H, Schmidt P, Sichting F, Wagner MF, Boldt A. Do cells contribute to tendon and ligament biomechanics? PLoS One. 2014;9(8):e105037.
Hammer N, Huster D, Boldt A, Hadrich C, Koch H, Mobius R, Schulze-Tanzil G, Scheidt HA. A preliminary technical study on sodium dodecyl sulfate-induced changes of the nano- structural and macro-mechanical properties in human iliotibial tract specimens. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater. 2016;61:164-73.
Schleifenbaum S, Prietzel T, Aust G, Boldt A, Fritsch S, Keil I, Koch H, Mobius R, Scheidt HA, Wagner MF, Hammer N. Acellularization-Induced Changes in Tensile Properties Are Organ Specific - An In-Vitro Mechanical and Structural Analysis of Porcine Soft Tissues. PLoS One. 2016;11(3):e0151223.
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