PhD candidate to conduct a PhD biomedical research program on Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP)

We are looking for a graduate student willing to conduct a PhD biomedical research program in our research line on Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). FOP is an ultra-rare musculoskeletal disorder caused by specific genetic mutations in the ACVR1 gene, which encodes for the Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) type I receptor ALK2. Patients with FOP, also termed the Stone Man syndrome, experience episodes of extra-skeletal ossification in response to inflammation (for example, muscle damage or fatigue, vaccinations, or trauma), leading to the formation of a secondary (ectopic) skeleton and progressive immobilization of joints (such as jaws, neck, hips, shoulders), resulting in lethal disorders in the majority of cases. Unfortunately, there is no approved curative treatment. To carry out the work in the research line, a highly motivated individual with a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, or a similar field, with an academic record of an average grade equal to or higher than 8.0 and proficiency in English, is required.

The tasks will involve cultivating and differentiating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) into disease-relevant cell types. The differentiated cells will be subjected to mechanical forces (i.e., shear stress, mechanical loading, matrix stiffness) that recapitulate the microenvironment of lesions in FOP patients, using various organ-on-chip models. The candidate will join a recently established group in Oviedo (Asturias, Spain) and become part of an international team, allowing for regular interactions with other members remotely, including regular meetings in English. There is a possibility of short stays in other European laboratories and participation in international conferences.