PhD Student in Polymer Biomaterial Science | Promotion (m/w/d)
Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung e. V.
Job Summary
This PhD position at the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research (IPF) focuses on investigating the biological formation of nanostructured surfaces on springtail (Collembola) cuticles. As a doctoral researcher, you will explore how these organisms developed omniphobic and anti-adhesive properties to survive terrestrial environments. Your day-to-day work will involve a mix of experimental and theoretical tasks, including the collection and breeding of springtails, electron microscopy preparation, and transcriptomic/proteomic analysis. You will utilize advanced techniques such as ToF-SIMS analysis and statistical reverse-engineering to reconstruct these biological processes ex vivo. This role is highly interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with the B CUBE Center for Molecular Bioengineering and the Senckenberg Institute. It offers a unique opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment in biomimetic research, contributing to fundamental material science innovations in a family-friendly, internationally recognized research environment.
Required Skills
Education
Master's Degree (M.Sc.) or Diploma in Physics (preferred) or Chemistry.
Experience
- Experience or strong affinity for biophysics and biomolecular condensation processes
- Practical experience in experimental laboratory work including microscopy and spectroscopy
- Experience with simulation work for modeling and in silico testing of molecular interactions is highly preferred
- Professional experience in planning and organizing scientific research projects
- Proven track record in scientific communication and discussion
Languages
Additional
- The position is limited to 3 years in accordance with the WissZeitVG. The role is part-time at 26 hours per week. Location is based in Dresden, Germany.