Summary
The Walther Lab at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU), Germany is inviting applications for a PhD Researcher position on “3D Printed Synthetic Cells for Chemical Communication.” The project aims to develop synthetic cells (“syncells”) using high-resolution 3D printing and engineer chemical communication through pH waves, enabling sustained oscillations, synchronization, and collective behavior in synthetic-cell consortia.
The research combines systems chemistry, polymer science, responsive hydrogels, advanced microfabrication, enzymatic reaction networks, 3D printing, quantitative microscopy, and reaction–diffusion modeling. The position offers interdisciplinary training in a highly international research environment with access to advanced laboratory and analytical facilities.
Designation
PhD Researcher / PhD Position
Research Area
- Artificial and Synthetic Cells
- Systems Chemistry
- Chemical Reaction Networks
- Chemo-Mechanical Feedback
- pH Feedback Systems and pH Waves
- Polymer Chemistry
- Responsive Hydrogels
- Two-Photon Lithography
- High-Resolution 3D Printing
- Microfabrication
- Enzymatic Reaction Networks
- Quantitative Microscopy
- Reaction–Diffusion Modeling
- Materials Science
Location
Walther Lab, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU), Mainz, Germany
Eligibility / Qualification
Candidates should have:
- A very good Master’s degree in:
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- or a closely related field
- Strong motivation for basic and interdisciplinary research
- Interest in microfabrication and 3D printing
- Prior experience with any of the following is advantageous:
- Hydrogels
- Enzymes
- Polymer synthesis
- Microscopy
- Ability to work independently and responsibly
- Creative and enthusiastic approach to experimental research
- Interest in scientific networking and collaboration
- Excellent English communication skills
- Ability and willingness to work effectively in an interdisciplinary team
Job Description
The selected researcher will work on developing spatially organized synthetic cells using advanced 3D printing technologies. Major research activities will include:
- Developing enzyme-compatible, pH-responsive hydrogel resins for two-photon lithography.
- Fabricating 3D-printed synthetic-cell units with micrometre-scale spatial precision.
- Designing controlled spatial landscapes and 3D tissue-like structures.
- Integrating pH-feedback systems based on enzymes such as:
- Urease
- Glucose oxidase
- Enzymatic cascades
- Investigating chemical communication between synthetic cells through pH waves.
- Studying collective phenomena such as synchronization and coordinated behavior in synthetic-cell consortia.
- Developing simulation approaches for reaction–diffusion processes to understand and predict system behavior.
- Applying quantitative microscopy and advanced analytical techniques to characterize the systems.
The researcher will work within a team with established expertise in 3D printing, pH-feedback systems, and modeling, providing interdisciplinary support throughout the project.
For excellent candidates, an association with the Max Planck Graduate Center may be pursued, offering additional interdisciplinary networking and career-development opportunities.
What the Lab Offers
- Collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment
- State-of-the-art 3D printing and analytical facilities
- International and ambitious research team
- Opportunities for national and international collaborations
- Conference, workshop, and soft-skill training opportunities
- Strong support for PhD researchers
- Opportunities for professional and personal development
- Excellent local research environment
- German salary scale TV-L 13 (65%) with full social benefits
How to Apply
Submit your complete application as a single PDF file with the subject:
“3D-Printed Synthetic Cells”
Send the application by email to:
Walther-applications@uni-mainz.de
The application should include:
- Letter of motivation, including a summary of previous research experience and research interests
- Meaningful summary of the Master’s thesis
- Transcripts of records for Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- List of publications
- Contact details for one or preferably two referees who can provide reference letters
Starting Date
1 October 2026 onwards
The starting date is flexible.
Salary
TV-L 13 at 65%, including full social benefits.
Last Date to Apply
30 September 2026
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, so early application is recommended.
