Postdoc in development of an analysis pipeline for measurement of microplastics and other synthetic particles in human intestinal tissue samples (2024-224-05788)

The objective is to study intestinal biopsies from patients with Crohn’s disease using high-resolution hyperspectral imaging(microspectroscopy) to explore whether there is a link between such particles and inflammation. A sub-objective is to assess if hyperspectral imaging can predict the onset of inflammation at an earlier stage than standard pathological methods.

Background: Crohn’s disease is a chronic intestinal disease of rising incidence which often affect young individuals. It has no cure, and its etiology, disease-initiating events, and pathogenesis are poorly understood. Intriguingly, the disease has a particular feature of inflammation in specific intestinal segments, but not others. The factors and mechanism for these features are one of the main unanswered questions in Crohn’s disease.

Working hypothesis: Ingested microplastics and other synthetic particles enter the vascular and lymphatic channels within the intestinal wall, leading to localized inflammation due to distinct physical and chemical properties of the particles, resulting in the characteristic segmental intestinal distribution of inflammation observed in Crohn’s disease.

Approach: An analysis pipeline for measurement of microplastics and other synthetic particles in archived human intestinal tissue samples shall be developed. The analysis will be based on FTIR microspectroscopy and Raman microspectroscopy. The intestine samples are archived biopsies from Crohn’s disease patients, preserved in paraffin. This pipeline is then used to analyze intestinal tissue samples of patients with Crohn’s disease from inflamed and uninflamed areas.

To do the microspectroscopy, our lab is equipped with two FTIR microscopes(Agilent, Cary 620/670) with Focal Plane Arrays(128×128 pixels) and a Raman microscope(Horiba XploRA Nano AFM-Raman). The data interpretation will be done with a tailor-made software for analyzing the created hyperspectral images. The successful candidate takes part in developing the specifications for the software and potentially also specific algorithms included herein.

For further information about the position contact Professor Jes [email protected]

Qualification requirements:

The candidate must hold a relevant PhD degree in Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Medical Science, Environmental Sciences, or related fields. The ideal candidate has a background in microspectroscopy with focus hyperspectral imaging of biological material. Experience in chemometrics will also be beneficial.

The applicant must have good interpersonal and communication skills, as the project is carried out in a well-balanced international work environment.

Appointment as postdoc presupposes scientific qualifications at PhD–level or similar scientific qualifications. The research potential of each applicant will be emphasized in the overall assessment. Appointment as a Postdoc cannot exceed a period of four years in total at Aalborg University.

The application must contain the following:

• A motivated text wherein the reasons for applying, qualifications in relation to the position, and intentions and visions for the position are stated.
• A current curriculum vitae.
• Copies of relevant diplomas(Master of Science and PhD). On request you could be asked for an official English translation.
• Scientific qualifications. A complete list of publications must be attached with an indication of the works the applicant wishes to be considered. You may attach up to 5 publications.
• Dissemination qualifications, including participation on committees or boards, participation in organizations and the like.
• Additional qualifications in relation to the position.
• References/recommendations.
• Personal data.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that subsequent to the deadline for applications the head of department supported by the chair of the assessment committee will select candidates for assessment. All applicants will be informed whether they will be assessed or not.

For further information concerning the application procedure please contact Kristina Enggaard by [email protected] or phone(+45) 9940 9583.

The applications are only to be submitted online by using the”Apply online” button below. 

Wages and employment

Employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities(the Appointment Order) and the Ministry of Finance’s current Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities. Employment and salary are in accordance with the collective agreement for state-employed academics.