PhD Position in Biomimetic Hybrid Materials

Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena

07743 Jena

Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-07-24

Overview

The Professorship of Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Biointerface Engineering at the Institute for Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry seeks to fill a PhD Position in Biomimetic Hybrid Materials commencing on 01.09.2026.
We offer a part-time position (65%, 26 hours per week), limited to 2 years and a planned extension of 1 year.
The advertised position is part of an international DFG research project focusing on mineralising hydrogel and scaffold systems for future bone replacement materials.
Part of the experimental work can be carried out in cooperation with the Department of Biomaterials at iba in Heilbad Heiligenstadt.

You will develop and characterize chitin- and chitosan-based hydrogels as well as porous scaffolds
You will investigate biomimetic mineralization processes in gels and scaffolds
You will establish and optimize experimental methods for material functionalization using recombinant proteins
The rheological, micromechanical and structural characterization of the materials will form part of your remit
You will conduct cell biology studies using osteogenic cell models (expected to be performed at the IBA in Heilbad Heiligenstadt) and evaluate the results
You will analyze and interpret experimental data and prepare it for scientific publications
You will present research findings at national and international conferences
You will work on your own scientific research project with the aim of obtaining a PhD

A successfully completed university degree (Master’s, Diploma or equivalent) in Materials Science, Biomaterials, Chemistry, Biotechnology or a related field
Knowledge in at least one of the following areas is required: biomaterials, hydrogels, polymer science, cell culture or biomimetic mineralization
We expect you to work in a structured, independent and scientifically rigorous manner
You must have a very good command of written and spoken English
You require the ability to work in a team and a willingness to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration across different research sites
Ideally, you have knowledge of rheological, microscopic or physicochemical characterization
Experience in scientific research and publishing is an advantage
Knowledge of statistical methods in the context of biological systems
Knowledge of analytical or imaging software is desirable

Involvement in an international DFG research project with a strongly interdisciplinary focus
Excellent research infrastructure and access to state-of-the-art analytical facilities at Friedrich Schiller University Jena and the Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM)
Interdisciplinary research at the interface of biomaterials science and regenerative medicine
The position is initially limited to two years with extension to three years envisaged
Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates and postdocs; family-friendly environment with services like JUniFamilie and JUniKinder; health promotion and sports activities
Remuneration based on TV-L up to salary scale E-13 including a special annual payment; 30 days vacation per year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

Part-time position (65%, 26 hours per week)
Fixed-term for 2 years with intention to prolong by 1 year; suitable for part-time work
Location: Jena with possible collaboration at Heilbad Heiligenstadt for experimental work
Closing date: 24.07.2026; Online application

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by 24.07.2026 using our online form.
For further information for applicants and the information on the collection of personal data, please refer to Data privacy and information for applicants

The newly established research group in Jena offers a unique opportunity to actively shape emerging research directions with a high degree of scientific independence and creative freedom. Part of the experimental work can be carried out in cooperation with the interdisciplinary Department of Biomaterials at iba in Heilbad Heiligenstadt.