Summary
An exciting, multidisciplinary PhD position is available at CIC biomaGUNE in San Sebastián, Spain. The selected candidate will join the Bionanoplasmonics Laboratory to work on a high-impact project funded by the “la Caixa” Foundation. The research focuses on the in situ synthesis of functional nanomaterials (plasmonic, magnetic, and piezoelectric) within microfluidic 3D stem cell models to non-invasively monitor and manipulate neural stem cell behavior.
PhD Position: Nanofabrication & Microfluidic Stem Cell Models, CIC biomaGUNE, Spain
Position Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Designation | PhD Position / Predoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Bionanomaterials, Synthetic Bioengineering, Nanofabrication, Microfluidics, and Neural Stem Cell Culture |
| Location | San Sebastián, Basque Country, Spain |
| Duration | Full-time predoctoral contract (Initial 12 months, renewable annually up to 36 months) |
| Funding Project | InNaNeuro (La Caixa Foundation Postdoctoral Junior Leader Fellowship) |
| Supervisors | Dr. Gail A. Vinnacombe-Willson and Prof. Luis Liz-Marzán |
| Application Deadline | August 7, 2026 |
| Envisaged Start Date | September 1, 2026 |
Job Description
The successful candidate will contribute to developing versatile models for the central nervous system. Responsibilities and project goals include:
- Developing the in situ growth of plasmonic, magnetic, and piezoelectric nanomaterials within microfluidic in vitro stem cell environments.
- Utilizing these advanced inorganic nanomaterials to influence neural stem cell differentiation.
- Monitoring local microenvironments non-invasively over time with high spatiotemporal resolution.
- Working collaboratively within an international, multidisciplinary team of scientists.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Required Education: A Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Bioengineering, or a related field.
- Note: According to contract regulations, the candidate must be formally enrolled in a doctoral program by their official start date.
- Preferred Experience: Prior hands-on experience in nanoparticle synthesis, microfluidics, and cell culture.
- Desirable Knowledge: Familiarity with piezoelectrics, nanoplasmonics, magnetic nanomaterials, and neural cell culture.
- Soft Skills: High motivation to learn across diverse scientific areas, a strong interest in multidisciplinary work, excellent interpersonal skills, and proficiency in written and oral English.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application directly through the official portal by clicking the “Apply Job Offer” button on the CIC biomaGUNE Job Offer Page.
Your application must include:
- A motivation letter explaining your interest in the position.
- An updated CV.
- Contact details of two academic references.
Important Note: Informal inquiries and questions can be sent to Prof. Luis Liz-Marzán (llizmarzan@cicbiomagune.es), but applications sent directly via email will NOT be accepted. You must use the official application portal.
