Forschungszentrum Jülich is offering a PhD position for an ambitious researcher to work on DNA-based Liquid Crystal Elastomers, contributing to the development of artificial cytoskeletons. This role involves fabricating and characterizing novel microscale liquid crystal elastomers (micro-LCEs) and is supported by an international, interdisciplinary research team. The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience in advanced material synthesis, microscopy, scattering, and rheology experiments, while also contributing to scientific publications and presenting research at conferences.
PhD Position in DNA-based Liquid Crystal Elastomers at Forschungszentrum Jülich
Designation
PhD Candidate
Scholarship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PhD Position – DNA-based Liquid Crystal Elastomers – Towards an artificial cytosceleton |
| Host Institution | Forschungszentrum Jülich |
| Department/Institute | Not explicitly stated, but implies a materials science/biophysics related department. |
| Employment Type | Fixed-term (3 years, with prospect of extension) |
| Salary | Pay group 13 (66%) TVöD-Bund, plus year-end bonus and capital-forming benefits. |
| Index Number | 2026D-0757 |
Research Area
- DNA-based Liquid Crystal Elastomers (LCEs)
- Microscale Liquid Crystal Elastomers (micro-LCEs)
- Soft Matter Science
- Biophysics
- Physical Chemistry
- Materials Science
Location
Jülich, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Biophysics, or a related field with a specialization in soft matter science.
- Experience in data analysis using standard software (e.g., Origin) and scientific programming.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Communicative and enjoys working in an international team.
- Good organizational skills and ability to work independently.
- High degree of commitment and a reliable, conscientious work style.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experimental experience with light scattering, microscopy, and rheology.
- Availability not later than December 2026.
Note: Candidates who do not possess all listed skills are still encouraged to apply, as missing skills may be taught during induction.
Scholarship Description
This PhD position focuses on fabricating and characterizing novel microscale liquid crystal elastomers (micro-LCEs) derived from charged microgels with specific polymer network architectures. Key responsibilities include:
- Producing micro-LCE particles using microfluidic techniques.
- Conducting structural and responsive characterization through microscopy and scattering techniques.
- Investigating the impact of temperature and ionic strength on particle conformation.
- Exploring mechanical properties via linear and non-linear rheological measurements on corresponding bulk polymer networks.
- Contributing to the optimization of material synthesis protocols.
- Analyzing experimental data.
- Preparing scientific publications.
- Participating in national and international conferences to present research findings.
- Engaging in exchange with internal and external project partners.
The position offers excellent scientific and technical facilities, continuous expert guidance, and opportunities for professional development through training and networking, including the JuDocS program. Benefits also include 30 days of annual leave, comprehensive company health management, and support for international employees.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official recruiting portal. The application process typically involves submitting a CV, academic transcripts, and potentially a cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the role. Please refer to the original job posting for detailed application instructions.
Last Date for Apply
The position will be published until it is successfully filled.
Apply Link
