PhD– Nanotechnology in Molecular Diagnostics: The Biosensors Lab led by Prof. Electra Gizeli (https://www.gizeligroup.eu/) invites applications for one (1) PhD Student Position in the EU-funded project UniHealth (https://unihealth-project.eu/). The project focuses on developing a global diagnostic ecosystem for detecting and monitoring emergency-prone pathogens across species using cutting-edge nanotechnology and molecular diagnostics.
Ref # ORZ-0808 | EU HORIZON-HLTH-2023-TOOL-05 Project: UniHealth
PhD Scholarship Opportunity – Nanotechnology in Molecular Diagnostics
This PhD position offers an excellent opportunity to work at the intersection of nanotechnology, molecular biology, and diagnostics, contributing to next-generation diagnostic technologies for cost-effective, rapid, and ultrasensitive pathogen detection.
📌 Scholarship Summary
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student Position |
| Research Area | Nanotechnology, Molecular Diagnostics, Biosensors, Point-of-Care Testing |
| Location | Biosensors Lab, IMBB-FORTH, Greece |
| Contract Duration | 12 months, with possible extension up to 3 years |
| Salary | Based on National Legislation & experience |
| Start Date | December 1, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | October 10, 2025 (13:00 Greece time) |
🧪 Research Focus
The PhD project will focus on:
- Design & synthesis of nanomaterials (metallic NPs, magnetic NPs, QDs)
- Functionalization with ligands, polymers, nucleic acids, or proteins
- Morphological, structural & spectroscopic characterization of nanomaterials
- Integration of nanomaterials into nucleic acid amplification assays (e.g., LAMP)
- Development of multiplexed molecular assays for simultaneous pathogen detection
- Adaptation for Point-of-Care (PoC) testing with real-world healthcare impact
The work aligns with the One-Health concept, aiming to develop innovative diagnostic solutions for monitoring viruses (Corona, Flu, West Nile, Dengue, Zika) across species.
📚 Eligibility/Qualification
Required:
- BSc in Physics, Material Sciences, Chemistry, or related fields
- MSc in Nanotechnology, Surface Chemistry/Science, or related field
- Enrollment in a postgraduate program leading to a doctoral degree at a Greek University
- Strong oral & written communication skills in English
- Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary environment (nanotechnology + molecular biology)
Desired:
- Hands-on experience in nanomaterial synthesis/characterization and/or bioanalytical techniques
- Familiarity with molecular biology methods (e.g., nucleic acid amplification)
- Research publications in relevant areas
- Ability to start within the next 2 months
📄 Job Description
The selected PhD student will:
- Conduct cutting-edge research in nanotechnology-enabled diagnostics
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (biologists, chemists, engineers, material scientists)
- Contribute to clinical validation with real samples in collaboration with partner groups
- Supervise undergraduate and/or Master students
- Participate in technology transfer events, science dissemination, and publications
- Gain skills in grant applications, scientific writing, and presentations
📬 How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents electronically to orz0808@imbb.forth.gr:
- Completed Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Brief Statement of Purpose
- Names & contact details of two referees
- Scanned copies of academic titles
- Proof of enrollment in a Postgraduate Program at a Greek University
- Scanned copies proving all listed qualifications
📑 Evaluation: Applications will be reviewed by a 3-member evaluation committee. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview (in-person or teleconference).
🗓 Deadline
October 10, 2025 (13:00 Greece time)
