Charles University's Biomedical Center is offering a doctoral candidate position within the BioMuscle international research and training network, funded by the European Union's Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Networks programme.
This PhD project focuses on establishing a preclinical porcine model for abdominal wall reconstruction using decellularized muscle matrices, aiming to advance regenerative solutions for complex abdominal wall defects.
Quick Facts
| Opportunity | PhD Position |
|---|---|
| Institution | Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen |
| Department | Biomedical Center |
| Location | Pilsen, Czech Republic |
| Region | Europe |
| Open to | International applicants |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Stipend / Salary | EUR 2,790/month gross, plus mobility and family allowances where applicable |
| Duration | 36 months, full-time |
| Start date | 1 April 2027 |
| Application deadline | 30 November 2026 |
About the Position
The successful candidate will investigate the surgical feasibility, implantability, biological compatibility, and early in vivo performance of porcine-derived decellularized muscle matrices. Key objectives include optimizing surgical techniques for abdominal wall reconstruction in a porcine model, evaluating the handling and biological compatibility of matrices in a non-survival model, and assessing short-term graft performance, tissue integration, and host immune responses in a survival model. The project will generate preclinical evidence to support future investigations into functional muscle regeneration and long-term reconstruction.
Eligibility
- Applicants must hold or expect to obtain a Master's degree or equivalent in veterinary medicine, medicine, biomedical sciences, biological sciences, or a related field before enrolment (April 1, 2027).
- Must not already hold a doctoral degree.
- Must comply with the MSCA mobility rule: not have resided or carried out their main activity in the Czech Republic for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately preceding recruitment.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English (minimum C1 level; C2 preferred).
- Strong interest in preclinical research, regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, biomaterials, or surgical reconstruction.
- Good analytical, organisational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary, international research environment.
Benefits
- Employment as a Doctoral Candidate at Charles University within an international Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network.
- Doctoral research project combining preclinical surgical research, biomaterials, and regenerative medicine.
- International training and research secondments (approx. 3 months each in Belgium for decellularization procedures and surgical techniques).
- Participation in the BioMuscle network's scientific activities, training programme, and international collaborations.
- Opportunities to develop technical, scientific, and transferable skills relevant to academic and non-academic careers.
- Gross salary of 2790 € per month (excluding employer's social and health contributions), in accordance with MSCA regulations.
- Eligibility for a mobility allowance to support relocation.
- Eligibility for a family allowance for researchers with family responsibilities, where applicable.
Documents Required
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter describing research interests and suitability for the project, including months of equivalent research experience, countries of residence in the last 3 years, and ranking of BioMuscle positions if applying for multiple.
- Copies of degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Contact details for two academic or professional referees
How to Apply
- Prepare all required documents in English.
- Submit the application via the Charles University application portal by November 30, 2026.
Source: EURAXESS.
Details can change – always confirm eligibility and deadline on the official listing before applying.
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