PhD Position in 4D Biopharmaceuticals with Electromagnetically Activated Functionalities
Develop photo-responsive polymer materials for on-demand drug release within the MSCA IDEAS Doctoral Network.
Best for:Best for candidates with a background in materials science or biomedical engineering and strong wet-lab synthesis experience.
Overview
This PhD position at the University of Pisa focuses on developing photo-responsive polymer networks and multiscale structures for 4D biopharmaceutical platforms. Operating within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network 'IDEAS', the candidate will design and characterize materials that respond dynamically to near-infrared (NIR) light for controlled drug delivery. The project involves close collaboration with international academic and industrial partners through planned secondments in Spain and Italy. The successful applicant will conduct original research, complete rigorous PhD coursework, and actively disseminate findings through publications and conferences.
What you'll do
- Design and synthesize photo-responsive polymer networks incorporating NIR-absorbing chromophores or nanoparticles.
- Process polymer materials into multiscale structures such as nanoparticles, hydrogels, and porous scaffolds.
- Perform structural and functional characterization using spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and microscopy techniques.
- Evaluate drug loading and light-triggered release profiles under simulated physiological conditions.
- Participate in network-wide training events, workshops, and secondments at partner institutions.
- Write scientific papers for peer-reviewed journals and draft the final doctoral thesis.
- Contribute to undergraduate teaching activities and present research at international scientific congresses.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science or equivalent degree in Materials Engineering, Biomaterial Engineering, Pharmaceutical Technology, Chemistry, or related fields
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent proficiency required
Instruction: English
- Strong background in polymer chemistry, materials science, or pharmaceutical technology
- Hands-on experience with material synthesis and functionalization techniques
- Familiarity with materials characterization methods such as spectroscopy, thermal analysis, or microscopy
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in an international and multidisciplinary research team
- First Stage Researcher (R1) at the time of recruitment
- Must comply with the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions mobility rule (not have resided or carried out main activity in Italy for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the recruitment date)
- Must not already hold a doctoral degree
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30 (Europe/Rome)
Prepare your application documents in accordance with the network guidelines and submit them through the official application portal before the deadline. Candidates are restricted to applying for a maximum of three projects within the IDEAS network.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
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