A Master’s Thesis position is immediately available in the laboratory (Competence Center Periodontal Research) of Assoc.-Prof. Oleh Andrukhov at the Medical University of Vienna, University Clinic of Dentistry. In our laboratory, we are highly interested in exploring the fundamental mechanisms involved in periodontal health and disease as well as periodontal regeneration. We are especially focused on the mechanisms of periodontal inflammation and the use of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells as a therapeutic tool in periodontal therapy. Our proximity to the Clinical Division of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology allows us to be in constant exchange with clinical periodontologists and link our basic science to clinical research.

The specific project for which we are seeking a highly motivated Master's student is focused on the influence of dental implant-derived nano- and microparticles on the immunomodulatory activities of gingiva-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. 

Main tasks:

• Planning, conducting, and analyzing experiments in close cooperation with a Post-Doc
• Independent isolation and cultivation of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells from extracted teeth and various immune cells from patients’ whole blood
• Establishing new methods in the laboratory in close cooperation with a Post-Doc
• Presenting Results during internal lab meetings

Skills and experience:

Potential candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related area. Basic knowledge of cell/molecular biology techniques, e.g., cell culture, qPCR, flow cytometry, etc., is mandatory. The potential candidate should have good English (written and oral) and communication skills.

The successful candidate will be introduced to various cell and molecular biology techniques and work closely with a Post-Doc.

Curriculum vitae, motivation letter, and the name of one referee should be e-mailed to:

Christian Behm, University Clinic of Dentistry, Medical University of Vienna

e-mail: christian.behm@meduniwien.ac.at