Job Overview
MSCA PhD student position in the Carbon Bio-nanotechnology Group (HEAL-4WARD Doctoral Network (DC2)). A 3‑year PhD position led by Maurizio Prato focuses on multi‑functional carbon‑based nanoparticles with antimicrobial properties for therapy and detection.
Responsibilities
• Design, synthesis and functionalization of ultrasmall carbon dots (C‑dots) for infection diagnostics and antimicrobial intervention.
• Tune physicochemical and optical properties (chirality, multimodal fluorescence, light‑responsive behaviour) to enable advanced sensing and imaging.
• Engineer nanomaterials with high biocompatibility and selective interaction with microbial species via rational design or external stimuli (e.g., light‑triggered activation).
• Select promising candidates based on optical performance and biological compatibility, and further functionalize them with targeting capability and improved antimicrobial activity.
• Investigate integration of C‑dot systems into advanced 3D biomaterials such as antibacterial films, creating multifunctional platforms for biofilm detection, disruption, and tissue regeneration in wound healing applications.
• Acquire expertise in nanoparticle synthesis, advanced optical characterization, and biological evaluation in relevant in‑vitro models within an international doctoral network.
Co‑supervisors
Dr Lucia Cardo (CIC biomaGUNE); Prof Iolanda Francolini (Sapienza University of Rome)
Secondments
* Prof Iolanda Francolini, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
Required Education Level
* Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Physical Chemistry or related fields.
* Applicants must be doctoral candidates (not already in possession of a doctoral degree).
* Mobility rule: researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before recruitment.
Required Skills and Qualifications
* Experience in organic chemistry and/or nanomaterial synthesis, ideally demonstrated through a Master’s thesis or research internships.
* Familiarity with physicochemical and optical characterisation techniques (optical spectroscopy, fluorescence analysis, TEM, DLS, AFM, etc.) and basic understanding of structure–property relationships in nanomaterials. Prior exposure to bio‑related applications or antimicrobial systems is an advantage.
* Proficiency in English and good written and oral communication skills. English language proficiency must be demonstrated (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English).
Benefits
Doctoral contract for three years with a gross monthly salary of €3,407, including a living allowance and a mobility allowance. Additional family allowance is foreseen if applicable.
Equal Opportunities Statement
CIC biomaGUNE is an equal‑opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other classification protected by European, national or local law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr