Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)

Job advertisement

Vacancy ID: 179/2026

Closing date: 2026-08-04

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Institute of Pharmacy seeks to fill at the 01.10.2026 the position of a

Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)

in the field of nanomedicine in collaboration with partners in medicine and chemistry.

We offer a part-time position (65% till 12.04.2029 and 50% from 13.04.2029 till 30.09.2029, 40 hours per week).

At our group, we are dedicated to advancing nanomedicine, with a particular focus on understanding how the structure of materials influences their properties and potential medical applications. Our teams work centers on gene delivery techniques and the potential of nanomaterials to enhance therapeutic outcomes.

Your responsibilities:

Design and formulate nanoparticles encapsulating biopolymers such as nucleic acids or proteins, optimizing for stability and effectiveness in gene delivery.

Conduct in-depth analyses to assess particle size, shape, distribution, composition, and stability in various buffers and media.

Investigate the compatibility and impact of developed nanomaterials on liver-associated immune cells.

Research outreach through publications, conference posters, and presentations, culminating in a doctoral thesis. You will have opportunities to present at international conferences and engage with the scientific community.

Work collaboratively on research tasks.

Supervising and guiding students in the field of pharmacy (internships).

Work on an own scientific qualification project, e.g. doctorate.

Your profile:

A Masters degree (or equivalent) in Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, or a related field.

Experience with analytical methods, cell culture routine, and statistical data analysis is required.

Communication skills in English and German.

We offer:

Access to a globally unique, state-of-the-art research environment dedicated to nanoformulations and gene therapy.

A dynamic research network with top-level facilities, training programs, and opportunities to participate in conferences, summer schools, and workshops, fostering both academic and professional growth.

30 days annual leave per calendar year, plus two days off on 24 and 31 December.

Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) up to salary scale 13 — depending on the candidates personal qualifications—, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement.

The advertised position is offered as a fixed-term position for 3 years. This is a part-time position with 65% till 12.04.2029 and 50% from 13.04.2029 till 30.09.2029 of the working hours of a full-time employee (40 hours per week).

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

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