Heidelberg University invites applications for a fully funded PhD Position in Acoustofluidics and Biomedical Device Engineering (f/m/d) within the Biomedical Microfluidics group at the Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM). This doctoral position focuses on engineering ultrasound-driven microfluidic systems for the isolation of extracellular vesicles for disease diagnostics and early cancer detection.
Overview Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d) |
| Research Group | Biomedical Microfluidics Group (Dr. Michael Gerlt) |
| Institution | Heidelberg University (IMSEAM) |
| Research Area | Acoustofluidics, Microfluidics, Biomedical Device Engineering |
| Location | Heidelberg, Germany |
| Funding / Remuneration | TV-L E13 (75%), up to 3 years |
| Starting Date | 1 February 2027 (earliest, later by agreement) |
| Application Deadline | 30 November 2026 |
Designation
PhD Position in Acoustofluidics and Biomedical Device Engineering (f/m/d)
Research Area
Acoustofluidics, Biomedical Instrumentation, Microfluidic Device Development, Acoustic Particle Manipulation, and Diagnostics (Extracellular Vesicle Enrichment & Early Cancer Detection).
Location
Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM), Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 225, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
Eligibility / Qualification
- A recognized Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a strong electrical engineering background are particularly encouraged to apply.
- Practical laboratory/research experience in one or more relevant areas: electronics, instrumentation, acoustics, microfluidics, device fabrication, or experimental physics.
- Demonstrated interest in experimental research, physical mechanisms, and biomedical technology translation.
- Proficiency in programming or data analysis (e.g., Python or MATLAB) is advantageous.
- Experience with finite-element modelling (FEM), ultrasound transducers, microfabrication, or rapid prototyping is welcome but not mandatory.
- Strong communication skills in English, team-oriented mindset, and initiative. Prior biological assay experience is not required.
Scholarship & Position Description
The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary project combining acoustic actuation, experimental instrumentation, and microfluidic engineering. Key tasks and offerings include:
- Core Tasks: Designing, prototyping, and characterizing microfluidic devices; investigating acoustic frequency, power, and material geometries for particle trapping; integrating ultrasound transducers and electronic controls into functional systems; and collaborating with clinical and bioanalytical partners.
- Remuneration: The position is funded up to 3 years according to the German public sector pay scale TV-L E13 (75%).
- Work Environment: Access to cutting-edge microfabrication, acoustofluidic, and bioanalytical core facilities, comprehensive scientific mentoring, and financial support for international conferences and career development.
How to Apply
Applicants must assemble their application into a single merged PDF file containing the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A concise letter of motivation detailing interest in the project and relevant technical background.
- Official academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees).
- Contact details for two academic referees.
- Optional: A brief sample of a relevant technical project, publication, or thesis excerpt.
Send the single PDF file by email to michael.gerlt@imseam.uni-heidelberg.de.
Important: You must format the email subject line precisely as follows (replace the placeholder with your actual surname):
PhD Application – [Last Name]
Applications that do not adhere to the single PDF requirement or lack the specified subject line will not be processed.
Last Date for Apply
30 November 2026
Apply Link
Submit your application via email directly to: michael.gerlt@imseam.uni-heidelberg.de
Official vacancy details: Heidelberg University IMSEAM Vacancy Notice
