.Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) | 19 Dec | Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) | Barcelona Introduction to the vacant position: The Smart Nano-Bio-Devices Group is looking for a Chemistry Postdoctoral Researcher to work on the development of self-propelled nanobots for translational approaches within biomedicine.The contract will be within the framework of the ERC Proof-of-Concept named iNanoSwarmsProject, which aims to develop enzyme-powered nanoparticles capable of self-propelling using bioavailable fuels and display collective and cooperative behaviour through communication among them as well as with the host environment.
Main tasks and responsibilities: Synthesis, characterization of biocompatible and biodegradable inorganic (e.G., mesoporous silica, gold nanoparticles, iron oxide nanoparticles) and organic (e.G., lipidic, polymeric, hydrogel-based) nanocarrier.
Characterize the physico-chemical structure of the nanoparticles/nanomotors.
Study of enzyme functionalization and drug loading/release capabilities of nanoparticles for the development of precision and personalized nanobots.
Design of nanobots to be used as active smart drug delivery systems.
Guide bachelor, master, and PhD students.
Interaction and reporting within the group and with private foundations and companies.
Actively working in the development of new ideas that give rise to future and/or evolution of projects and generation of intellectual property.
Requirements for candidates: Essential: PhD in the field of chemistry, biochemistry, nanobiotechnology, pharmacy, nanomedicine, or similar.
Experience in nanoparticle synthesis, and characterization of biocompatible and/or biodegradable inorganic (e.G., mesoporous silica, gold nanoparticles, iron oxide nanoparticles) and organic (e.G., lipidic, polymeric, hydrogel-based) nanocarrier.
Knowledge of common characterisation techniques in chemistry (NMR, FTIR, DLS, Z-potential, GPC, HPLC chromatography, SEM, TEM, AFM, spectroscopy equipment, etc).
Knowledge of modulating polymers / poly-peptides.
Experience grafting the surface of the NPs (e.G., surface grafting with polymers to reduce protein corona effect, anchoring an antibody/enzyme).
Advantageous: Experience in drug loading and drug delivery studies with therapeutic small molecules.
Basic knowledge of fluorescence microscopy.
Competencies and skills: Communication, Teamwork, Proactivity, Commitment, Collegiality, Integrity, Critical and Analytical thinking.
High level of English.
We Offer: Number of available positions: 1 Starting date: February 2025 Working conditions: Temporary full-time contract.
Measures to reconcile work and family life (maternity and paternity leave, flexible schedule working hours, 23 working days of paid holidays, 9 leave days for personal matters, among others).
IBEC ensures equality of access to professional development opportunities irrespective of employment status, length at IBEC or other factors