Doctoral Candidate (PhD) in Chemistry - INTRABRAIN Project
Join an innovative multinational research program developing nanoparticle-based vaccines for glioblastoma treatment.
Best for:Best for chemists or pharmaceutical scientists with a strong interest in nanomedicine and oncology.
Overview
The Department of Pharmacy at the University of Chieti-Pescara is seeking a motivated Doctoral Candidate to join the INTRABRAIN project. This multidisciplinary initiative focuses on creating advanced vaccine platforms by combining polymeric nanoparticles with oncolytic viruses to target glioblastoma. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Piera Di Martino to develop and characterize PLGA nanoparticle formulations. The role involves rigorous research into encapsulation efficacy, cellular transfection, and antitumor performance in glioblastoma models. This position offers an excellent opportunity for training at the intersection of oncology, immunology, and pharmaceutical chemistry.
What you'll do
- Formulate PLGA nanoparticles loaded with oncolytic viruses using various production techniques.
- Perform physicochemical characterization of the produced nanoparticle-virus complexes.
- Investigate the encapsulation efficiency of oncolytic viruses within the nanoparticle matrix.
- Conduct experiments to promote and measure transfection efficiency in glioblastoma cell lines.
- Demonstrate the antitumor efficacy of the developed nanoplatforms in relevant cell models.
- Participate in the multinational training activities provided by the INTRABRAIN project.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree or equivalent in Chemistry or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency is required.
Instruction: English
- Experience in nanoparticle formulation and characterization.
- Proficiency in cell culture techniques, specifically with glioblastoma models.
- Strong background in pharmaceutical chemistry or related disciplines.
- Ability to conduct independent research and data analysis.
- Must be a First Stage Researcher (R1).
- Must have 1-4 years of research experience.
- Must hold a Master's degree or equivalent.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16 (Europe/Rome)
Interested candidates should visit the official university portal to review the full call details. Applications must be submitted through the provided external link following the specific instructions outlined in the official announcement.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Cover letter
Contact
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