About the opportunity
The Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is seeking a talented PhD candidate to investigate and develop models of heart valve preservation. The project focuses on keeping human heart valves alive outside the body using dynamic bioreactors that replicate complex physiological flow conditions, pressures, and mechanical stimuli. Aligned with the BIOSHIELD consortium funded by the Dutch Heart Foundation, the research aims to improve heart valve replacements for young children with congenital heart disease by avoiding the limitations of current non-growing replacement options. You will be embedded in the Soft Tissue Engineering and Mechanobiology (STEM) group within the Department of Biomedical Engineering, collaborating closely with teams across TU/e and medical centers such as UMC Utrecht. The position involves generating experimental data, writing a doctoral thesis, publishing in scientific journals, and committing up to 15 percent of your time to teaching and mentoring students.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment for four years with a gross base salary ranging from €3,204 to €4,051 per month in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (scale P).
- An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus calculated on annual gross base salary.
- Generous leave options starting at 29 days per year, expandable up to 41 days through a flexible working hours arrangement.
- Participation in the ABP pension scheme, with TU/e contributing 70% of the premium.
- Access to a personal development program for PhD students (PROOF program) and high-quality training opportunities.
- Free 24/7 access to mental health support and guidance via OpenUp.
- An allowance for commuting, working from home, and internet costs, alongside a tax compensation Expat Scheme for international candidates.
Who can apply?
- A master's degree (or equivalent university degree) in Mechanical Engineering with an affinity for biomedical applications, Biomedical Engineering, or a comparable discipline.
- Prior experience with cell and tissue culture is mandatory.
- Competencies with mechanobiology, bioreactors, and preclinical research are considered a relevant added value.
- A research-oriented attitude with the ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively and work independently in a multidisciplinary team.
- Fluent in spoken and written English at the C1 level.
Required documents
- Cover letter detailing motivation and qualifications for the position.
- Curriculum vitae including a publication list and contact information for three references.
When to apply
- Published on October 30, 2026.
- Application deadline is November 30, 2026.
How to apply
- Submit your complete application online using the official apply button on the vacancy portal.
- Ensure all requested documents, including your cover letter and CV with references, are included as incomplete applications are not prioritized.
- Note that email and postal applications will not be processed.
Additional information
- The position features an intermediate assessment after nine months of employment.
- A pre-employment screening, which may include a knowledge security check, can be part of the selection procedure.
- For inquiries regarding the scientific aspects of the role, contact dr. Marijn Peters or prof. Carlijn Bouten; for terms of employment, contact HR advisor Marjon Temmink.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Strong fit for master's graduates in biomedical or mechanical engineering with hands-on tissue culture experience looking to transition into cutting-edge cardiovascular tissue engineering.
- Ideal for individuals passionate about translational research that bridges engineering design and clinical applications for pediatric health.
- Well-suited for candidates seeking a structured four-year doctoral training environment with dedicated professional development and teaching experience.
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires relocation to Eindhoven, Netherlands, for on-site execution, though relocation support and an Expat Scheme are provided.
- Involves a mandatory teaching and student supervision commitment of 10% to 15% of your working time each year.
- Fixed-term four-year commitment with an intermediate assessment milestone at nine months.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This four-year PhD position serves as an excellent stepping stone for a career in academic research, biomedical industry R&D, or clinical technology translation. It provides deep technical mastery in bioreactor design and tissue preservation while building a strong publication record and professional network within a leading European technical university and multidisciplinary consortium.
Our take
Applicants with a solid foundation in tissue culture and mechanical or biomedical engineering who want to pioneer ex vivo cardiovascular technologies should seriously consider applying before the November deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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