PhD Position in Advanced Characterization of Soft and Hybrid Nanoparticles: Combining small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS)
PhD Position in Advanced Characterization of Soft and Hybrid Nanoparticles: Combining small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS)
Posted on :
26-07-2025
Employer Active
1 Vacancy
Job Alert
You will be updated with latest job alerts via emailValid email field required
Send jobs
Share
Send me jobs like this
Job Alert
You will be updated with latest job alerts via emailValid email field required
Send jobs
Monthly Salary
Not Disclosed
Salary Not Disclosed
Vacancy
1 Vacancy
Posted on :
26-07-2025
Job Description
Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research Empas around 1100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.
At Empas Centre for X-ray Analytics we investigate bio-nano assemblies from lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to polymer-based nanosystems using powerful analytical tools such as small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS). Our goal is to bring quantitative insights into how soft-matter systems self-assemble and function with a particular emphasis on DNA/RNA-LNPs for next-generation gene therapeutics.
Your tasks
This PhD position is part of a larger EU-funded project focused on the metrological characterization of nanoparticles for healthcare and industrial applications.
As a PhD candidate you will:
- Develop and refine SAXS and FCCS methods to quantify size concentration density and internal structure of diverse nanoparticle systems.
- Investigate model particles such as liposomes mesoporous silica and silver nanoparticles.
- Investigate RNA-LNP formulations for next-generation gene therapeutics examining how lipid components and nucleic acids interact and self-assemble.
- Apply data analysis and modeling to deepen understanding of nanoparticle architectures and contribute to standardization-relevant method development.
- Collaborate with academic partners and potential industrial contacts to implement validate and/or refine quantitative methods needed to overcome key challenges in nanoparticle characterization.
Your profile
- Masters degree in Chemistry Physics Biophysics Materials Science or a related field.
- Strong interest or background in soft matter self-assembly or nanoparticle systems (e.g. lipid- or polymer-based).
- Quantitative mindset with good data analysis and problem-solving skills.
- Prior hands-on experience in scattering methods (SAXS SANS) or correlation spectroscopy (FCS FCCS) is a plus.
- Demonstrated competence in data analysis (e.g. in Python MATLAB or similar) or in analyzing scattering data is desirable.
- Proficiency in English (German is a plus).
- Enthusiasm to engage in multidisciplinary and international collaborations.
Our offer
We provide an international and stimulating research environment with excellent infrastructure for personal and professional development. You will be employed full-time (three years with the potential extension by one additional year) at Empa St. Gallen in the Bio-Nano Assembly research group which is part of the Center for X-ray Analytics the Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles and the Laboratory for Biointerfaces. This dynamic environment in the ETH Domain offers state-of-the-art facilities expert mentorship and an ideal platform to advance your scientific career.
Starting Date: As soon as possible or upon agreement.
We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation CV certificates diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.
SarahStdli Bereichspersonalleiterin / HR Partner
Employment Type
Full-Time
Report This Job
Disclaimer: Drjobpro.com is only a platform that connects job seekers and employers. Applicants are advised to conduct their own independent research into the credentials of the prospective employer.We always make certain that our clients do not endorse any request for money payments, thus we advise against sharing any personal or bank-related information with any third party. If you suspect fraud or malpractice, please contact us via contact us page.
