PhD position on correlative microscopy of colloids
3 years full time position at Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Germany
Introduction
Colloidal particles are microscopic or even nanoscopic particles whose surfaces can be functionalised. Their very large surface areas relative to their small volumes means you can load each one with many molecules to deliver and release drugs or bind pathogens and biomarkers at the target site, opening potential for powerful diagnostic and therapeutic systems. The reason that this potential is yet to be exploited is that these functionalities depend on tight and quantitative control over the number, distribution and activity of chemical groups at the particle surface. The SuperCol Innovative Training Network (ITN, 15 PhD positions in total) will combine super-resolution microscopy, colloidal sciences, and advanced modelling to (a) control, (b) visualize and quantify, and (c) rationally design surface-functionality to advance particle-based biomedical applications.
SuperCol establishes a unique and well-structured training network with leading research labs from European universities and industry in the domain of correlative microscopy and colloidal sciences. The 15 PhD students will form a research team that is embedded in leading industrial and academic R&D labs. This will bridge the gap between the various disciplines by uniting their research efforts to solve the challenges.
The SuperCol project is supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme Marie Sklodowska-Curie Innovative Training Networks (ITN) under grant No. 860914
About the project
Within this research project the successful candidate will develop new experimental and methodical strategies to correlate data from optical super resolution and electron microscopy. Main focus will be on the visualization of surface functionalization of colloid nanoparticles. You will be part of the department “physical chemistry of polymers” at the MPI-P. During the project you will closely collaborate and pay visits to other partners in the project, particularly the Technical University of Eindhoven, and the industrial partner Delmic.
Job requirements
For the PhD position, we seek an enthusiastic and motivated candidate with MSc degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Physical Chemistry, or similar. He/she must have an affinity with microscopy and/or colloidal sciences. Experience in a high programming language are an asset. Good communication skills in English (both written and spoken) are required.
The vacancy is open to candidates who are in the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of their research careers and have not been awarded a doctoral degree, and who have not resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to your recruitment.
Working scientific language at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research is English. The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons and women.
How to apply
Applications will be considered until September 30th.
The application should be sent by e-mail to: lieberw@mpip-mainz.mpg.de,should indicate in the object line “Application SuperCol Correlative Microscopy”, and should include:
1) a letter of interest (max. 1 page), clearly stating the specific interest of the candidate to join the group, work on this project, his/her career goals, etc.
2) CV
3) grade transcripts or equivalent record of excellent academic performance clearly indicating courses taken and grades in each course (for MS and BS)