Are you passionate about interdisciplinary research at the intersection of soft matter physics, chemistry, and stem cell biology? The EMERGE graduate school at RWTH Aachen University is offering two doctoral candidate positions within Project A1: Nanogels as Drug Delivery Vehicles for Stem Cell Activation.
Summary
This project aims to recreate bone marrow in the laboratory by guiding stem cells toward specialized bone-forming cells using tuneable nanogels. Researchers will work in a collaborative environment to develop and apply these nanogels as precise delivery vehicles for key molecular signals.
Position Overview
| Detail | Position 1 | Position 2 |
| Designation | Doctoral Candidate (Chemistry) | Doctoral Candidate (Biology/Bioengineering) |
| Research Area | Modulating nanogel carrier capacity | Nanogel-mediated delivery for osteogenesis |
| Department | Institute of Physical Chemistry | Cell and Tumor Biology |
| Pay Grade | TV-L 13 (67%) | TV-L 13 (65%) |
Job Descriptions
1. Doctoral Candidate (Chemistry)
You will focus on synthesizing nanogels based on polysaccharide building blocks and investigating how nano-ions control their swelling, uptake, and release behaviors.
- Key Tasks: Utilize advanced scattering techniques (light, neutron, X-ray), collaborate with biologists, publish research, and contribute to teaching.
2. Doctoral Candidate (Biology/Bioengineering)
You will focus on the functional application of engineered nanogels for the intracellular delivery of osteogenic transcription factors (e.g., RUNX2) into stem cells.
- Key Tasks: Culture mesenchymal stromal cells and iPSC-derived progenitors, assess uptake/trafficking via microscopy, and evaluate osteogenic differentiation in 2D and 3D organoid models.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Chemistry Position: Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Biotechnology, or similar. Experience with polymer synthesis is advantageous; knowledge of scattering methods (DLS, SLS, SAXS, SANS) is helpful.
- Biology Position: Master’s degree in Biology, Biotechnology, or similar. Strong background in cell/molecular biology and practical experience in cell culture is required. Experience with iPSCs, organoid models, or microscopy is advantageous.
- General: Fluent in spoken and written English. Ability to work collaboratively and independently in an interdisciplinary team.
How to Apply & Important Dates
- Hiring Date: October 1, 2026.
- How to Apply: Please contact the correct project leader directly for your application. Ensure you clearly state which of the two topics you are applying for.
- Project Leader (Chemistry): Max Hohenschutz
- Project Leader (Biology): Rebekka Schneider-Kramann
- Note: Per RWTH policy, please do not include a photo with your application.
Last Date for Apply: Open Now
