PhD Position in Non-Viral Vector Design for Paediatric Rare Disease Therapies

This PhD position at the University of Santiago de Compostela (USC) offers a multidisciplinary research opportunity to design and evaluate non-viral vectors and nanoparticle formulations for delivering therapeutic nucleic acids and proteins. The project, led by Dr. Javier Montenegro García and Dr. Mª Luz Couce Pico, focuses on advancing treatments for paediatric rare diseases such as lysosomal storage disorders. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of chemistry, pharmacy, and medicine, gaining hands-on experience in techniques like electrophoresis, RNA production, in vitro/ex vivo delivery studies, and in vivo efficacy/toxicity assessments. Training will occur in a collaborative environment spanning two leading research groups, with opportunities for scientific writing, dissemination, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• Design and synthesize novel non-viral vectors and nanoparticle formulations for delivering nucleic acids (e.g., mRNA, plasmid DNA) and modified proteins.
• Conduct in vitro and ex vivo experiments to evaluate mRNA delivery efficiency in primary patient cells.
• Perform animal biodistribution studies using IVIS imaging to assess nanoparticle behaviour in vivo.
• Assess nanoparticle efficacy and toxicity in animal models of paediatric rare diseases.
• Participate in scientific writing, group meetings, and dissemination activities to share research findings.
• Collaborate across two research groups to integrate chemistry, pharmacy, and medical perspectives.