Summary
Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD position within the Carbon Bionanotechnology Laboratory at CIC biomaGUNE, led by Prof. Maurizio Prato. This scholarship is part of the “smartDOTS” project, focusing on the design and development of multifunctional carbon-based nanoparticles for biomedical imaging, sensing, and therapy. The successful candidate will engage in multidisciplinary research, combining organic chemistry, nanotechnology, and biomedicine.
Designation
PhD Candidate
Scholarship Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Published Date | 22/09/2026 |
| Application Deadline | 13/10/2026 |
| Envisaged Start Date | December 2026 – January 2027 |
| Duration | 4 years (full-time contract) |
| Funding Project | smartDOTs – PID2025-170845OB-I00 (Spanish State Research Agency – AEI) |
| Co-funding | European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), where applicable |
Research Area
smartDOTS Project: Multifunctional Carbon Dots for Biomedical Applications
The PhD research will focus on the rational design and development of multifunctional carbon-based nanoparticles. The primary goal is to tailor their chemical, physicochemical, and optical properties for various biomedical applications, including medical imaging, photoinduced therapy, and sensing. The project aims to establish organic chemistry-based principles to control the properties of ultrasmall carbon-based nanoparticles, moving beyond trial-and-error to create safe, reliable, and multifunctional platforms.
The candidate will be responsible for:
- Developing chemically advanced carbon-based nanomaterials.
- Synthesizing and functionalizing novel materials.
- Performing advanced physicochemical and optical characterization.
- Exploring biological applications of the developed materials.
Location
CIC biomaGUNE, Spain
Eligibility/Qualification
Required Education Level
- Master’s degree in Chemistry or related fields.
- Applicants must be doctoral candidates (not already in possession of a doctoral degree).
- By the date of incorporation, the candidate must have completed the relevant qualification, meet academic requirements for doctoral admission, and be admitted to and enrolled in a PhD programme.
Required Skills/Qualifications
- Background in organic chemistry, with practical experience in multi-step synthetic procedures (demonstrated through Master’s thesis, research project, or internship).
- Previous experience with the synthesis and chemistry of carbon dots is an advantage.
- Familiarity with physicochemical and optical characterization techniques (e.g., optical spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, NMR, TEM, DLS, AFM).
- Good understanding of purification and separation methods (e.g., chromatography, solvent extraction, dialysis).
- Good command of English, with strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and international environment.
- Good interpersonal skills, high motivation for experimental research, problem-solving attitude, and teamwork ability.
Scholarship Description
This PhD position is funded by the PID2025-1708450B-100 project, granted by the Spanish State Research Agency. It is intended for the completion of a doctoral thesis associated with the smartDOTS project. The predoctoral contract is for a full-time duration of 4 years and may be co-funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).
Selection Criteria (Maximum 100 points)
- Academic and/or scientific and technical track record (up to 50 points)
- Academic record and scientific and technical contributions (up to 45 points): Assesses academic record, qualifications, scientific/technical contributions, participation in research projects, conferences, publications, and relevance of background to the position.
- Mobility and internationalisation (up to 5 points): Assesses research, training, or professional stays at national or international research centers/industry, considering relevance, duration, and activities.
- Suitability for the proposed research activities (up to 50 points)
Assesses relevance of academic background, knowledge, competencies, research experience, consistency of research interests with project objectives, potential contribution to applicant’s training, and contribution to the host center/project/team.
Assessment will be based on submitted documentation and, for shortlisted applicants, a structured interview.
How to Apply
Submit your application using the “Apply to this Job Offer” button on the original website. Your application should include:
- A motivation letter stating your interest in this position.
- Your Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contact details of two academics who can provide a reference.
Important: Applications sent directly to the informal inquiry email addresses will NOT be accepted.
Last Date for Apply
13/10/2026
