Post Doc in Late Quaternary Palaeoecology : Kalmar, Sweden

The overall aim of our research is to characterise how biomaterials perform in a biological system, with focus on the intravascular instant immune activation and thrombotic response (i.e. thromboinflammation). A biomaterial is per definition a material introduced to a biological system as a treatment with the aim of maintaining or improving a biological function. Examples of biomaterials are implants, extracorporeal circulation and nanoparticle drug delivery systems. Treatment using biomaterials can be associated with adverse effects. Central components in the acute intravascular reactions are the complement and coagulation cascades, in interplay with blood cells and the endothelium.

The aim of this Ph.D. project is to characterise the host response to biomaterials, and identify therapeutic targets of thromboinflammation. Mechanisms for how coagulation and complement are activated in contact with material surfaces, and cross-talk with other components of inflammation will be studied. The effects on endothelial cells will be in focus. Also, inflammation in patients with advanced heart-failure subjected to mechanical heart pump implantation, so-called `LVAD,' will be characterised.

The methodology is based mainly on ex vivo models of human blood. Methods which will be used are cell culturing, flow cytometry, microscopy and ELISA. This project might also involve animal experiments. The research will be performed at Linnaeus University, Centre for Biomaterials Chemistry, Sweden, in close collaboration with the University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Norway. There will be the opportunity to perform parts of the project in Oslo. The candidate will join a strong and interactive research environment….