Research assistant (PostDoc) - Maetically steerable nanocarriers in Lübeck bei Individualized and Cell Based Medical Engineering

As an innovative and unique research institution, Fraunhofer IMTE develops intelligent systems and processes for health in the fields of medical technology, cell technology and aquaculture. The focus is on the safe translation of these solutions into beneficial applications for a healthy society. With a cycle of prevention, diagnostics, therapy and rehabilitation, we are redefining the concept of circular health and creating ideal conditions for the individualization of health technologies.

Personalized, i.e. targeted and local therapy options are increasingly coming into focus in order to increase the effectiveness of medication and at the same time reduce side effects that burden the entire body. The "Magnetic Methods" working group is working on innovative ways to develop smart drug transporters using magnetic control. The aim is to load magnetic micro- and nanorobots with drugs and deliver them to their targeted site of action. This field of research is synergistically linked with magnetic fluid hyperthermia and the novel imaging modality of magnetic particle imaging.

What you will do

As a research associate (PostDoc) you will support the group with your expertise in chemistry, biochemistry, nanotechnology, materials science or related fields. You should have experience in polymer chemistry and nano-/microparticle production. Your task is to produce nanoparticles/drug carriers from biocompatible and biodegradable materials, functionalize them and load them with active therapeutics. In addition, the developed materials should have magnetic properties, which can be achieved, for example, by introducing iron oxide nanoparticles.

• Development and independent implementation of a research project based on biocompatible/biodegradable materials for micro- and/or nanorobots using the following methods:
  • Conducting in vitro experiments,
  • Nanoparticle synthesis and functionalization,
  • loading with drugs,
  • 3D printing (micro 3D printing and bio 3D printing),
  • microfluidics, etc.
• Member of the magnetic methods group and contribution of your experience and expertise with a background in chemistry to various research projects
• Guidance of young scientists, supervision of bachelor and master theses
• Writing scientific publications
• Presentation of research results at specialist conferences

What you bring to the table

• Completed scientific university degree in the field of chemistry, biochemistry, nanotechnology, materials science or comparable
• Completed doctorate in the field of biomaterials, medical materials, nanoparticles, nanomaterials, micro/nanorobotics or comparable
• Experience of working and knowledge of working methods in wet chemical laboratories and willingness to take on responsibility in the laboratory
• Basic experience in cell engineering, e.g. independently preparing cell cultures and carrying out biocompatibility tests on the materials developed
• Experience in supervising undergraduate students
• A committed personality who enjoys working together to advance the team's goals and topics
• Independent, structured, responsible and conscientious way of working

What you can expect

• You can expect challenging and varied tasks with responsibility and creative freedom in an innovative research environment.
• An open and innovative working atmosphere in an interdisciplinary team with flat hierarchies
• Great creative freedom and the opportunity to shape our young institution creatively and sustainably
• Collaboration on exciting tasks in applied research and development
• Co-creation of solutions for exciting research tasks with contact to industry
• Work-life balance through flexible working hours, the option of mobile working, as well as other supportive offers to reconcile private and professional life, such as childcare places
• Individual development through further training
• Company pension scheme (VBL)
• A modern, attractive workplace on the Lübeck university campus
• Job ticket