Toward Optimized Scheduling of Pluripotent Stem Cell Processing
This project seeks to optimize stem cell processing by identifying real-time measurements that improve differentiation outcomes based on cell line and culture conditions.
This grant is no longer accepting proposals
NRC Research Associateship Programs has archived this opportunity.
Funder: NRC Research Associateship Programs
Due Dates: February 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025
Funding Amounts: $82,764 stipend plus $3,000 travel allowance; typical appointment duration is 2 years.
Summary: Supports postdoctoral research to optimize pluripotent stem cell processing by developing real-time measurement techniques tailored to specific cell lines and culture conditions.
Key Information: Open to U.S. citizens with a doctoral degree earned within the last 5 years; application requires contacting a research adviser prior to applying; NIST participates in February and August review cycles.
Description
This fellowship opportunity, offered through the NRC Research Associateship Programs at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), supports postdoctoral research focused on optimizing the scheduling of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) processing. The project aims to identify minimally invasive, real-time measurement techniques that can guide processing parameters dynamically, rather than relying on static, fixed-time protocols. Because optimal processing timing varies by cell line and culture system, the research will use design of experiments to systematically evaluate how changes in culture conditions affect differentiation outcomes.
Measurement approaches under consideration include time-lapse imaging (transmitted light, quantitative phase, surface plasmon resonance microscopy), fluorescent protein reporter cell lines, flow cytometry, and advanced image analysis. Statistical methods will be applied to identify the most informative measurements for scheduling differentiation steps.
This research is relevant to bioengineering, quantitative biology, stem cell biology, microscopy, image analysis, and precision medicine, with potential applications in improving differentiation protocols for various cell lineages.
