Master Student in Microfluidics (m/f/d)
We are recruiting an ambitious master‑thesis student who wants to pursue groundbreaking research in the areas of bioengineering. It will be based in the laboratory of Abdel Rahman Abdel Fattah at CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna.
The Project
The function and dysfunction of the neurovascular unit (NVU) barrier is central to post‑traumatic injury progression. This project introduces a bioengineered microphysiological platform designed to integrate a structured neuronal compartment with a functional vascular barrier in a controlled three‑dimensional environment. By engineering spatial organization and vascular perfusion from the outset, we aim to establish an in vitro NVU model in which barrier formation, maintenance, and breakdown can be systematically studied.
To achieve this, we will iteratively design and fabricate microfluidic platforms using CAD‑based modeling and in‑house 3D printing to generate molds for device production. We will optimize biomaterial composition and mechanical properties to support neuronal compartment stability, vascular maturation, and self‑organized interface formation between neural and endothelial components. Functional validation will include quantitative assessment of barrier integrity and permeability, as well as analysis of neurovascular responses using live imaging and molecular profiling. Ultimately, this work will generate a controllable human NVU platform suitable for studying injury dynamics, vascular dysfunction, and tissue remodeling, with implications for mechanistic neuroscience, disease modelling, and therapeutic development.
Your Profile
We are seeking a motivated and talented master’s student with a strong background in bioengineering, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or a related field. Experience in mammalian cell culture is essential, and familiarity with hydrogel systems, extracellular matrices, microfabrication, microscopy, or computational design is highly desirable.
The student will work closely with a post‑doctoral researcher in a highly collaborative environment and gain hands‑on experience in microphysiological system design, biofabrication, and functional validation of engineered tissues. The project requires a commitment of 9‑12 months and offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge interdisciplinary research at the interface of engineering and neuroscience, with strong potential for co‑authorship in a high‑impact publication.
We offer
* Work within an experienced, interdisciplinary, and international team at one of Austria’s leading research institutes
* Ample opportunities to contribute and gain experience in a key area of biomedical research and precision medicine
* An inspiring workplace with an international setting, strong team spirit, and an excellent work climate
* A wide range of social, cultural, and sports activities organized by the institute
* Excellent employee benefits including full insurance coverage (health, accident, retirement), health care services, subsidised cafeteria
* Monthly gross salary of EUR 1 379,60 for 20 hours / week
Additional information
City: Vienna
Position type: Part‑time employee
Start of work: 01 08 2026
Responsible
Memo Mokhles
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