PhD Position in EU Training Network FADOS - Development of 3D semiconducting hydrogel for cell interfacing

Your Job:

The PhD candidate will be in charge of:

• The development of photopolymerizable hydrogel blends with n-type and p-type semiconductor capabilities
  
• The pattering of the semiconducting hydrogel into biomimetic microstructures with 2-photon polymerization setup
  
• The evaluation of morphological and electrochemical device properties in biological conditions
  
• The validation for in-vitro cell interfacing
  
• The communication with internal and external as well as national and international project partners
  

The project will include two secondments (6 months each):

• Stuttgart University (USTUTT): formulation of n- and p-type hydrogels
  
• Linkopings Universitet (LiU): development of the neurohybrid network
  

The work will be done in close collaboration with the other members of the FADOS network.

Further information on the project is available at: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/ibi/ibi-3/organization/neuroelectronic-interfaces-nei

Your Profile:

• Applications are welcomed from candidates with a M.Sc. degree (or equivalent, including candidates who are about to complete their degrees) in physics, material science, chemistry or related fields
  

In addition to the above, essential requirements include:

• Knowledge in semiconductor physics, bioelectronics and fabrication technologies
  
• Interest in neural interfacing and neuroelectronics
  
• Good communications skills and proficiency in spoken and written English
  
• Willingness and the ability to travel both within the Schengen region, the UK and abroad to conduct research (including secondments) and attend conferences and network activities
  

If applicable, further desirable qualifications:

• Experience in organic semiconductor processing and characterization
  
• High degree of independence, motivation and reliability
  
• Excellent ability to cooperate and work in a team
  
• Curiosity and fast learning are a plus
  

Eligibility for FADOS programme:

• At the time of recruitment, be in the first four years of their research career and have not been awarded a doctoral degree.
  
• Mobility rule: The applicant must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the host institute [Germany] for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the recruitment. Compulsory national service, short stays such as holidays, and time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention are not taken into account
  
• Demonstrate their ability to understand English and express themselves fluently in speech and writing
  

Please feel free to apply for the position even if you do not have all the required skills and knowledge. We may be able to teach you missing skills during your induction.

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! The appointment is for a total of 36 months, with a starting date on 1 February 2026 or by agreement. We support you in your work with:

• A competitive salary in accordance with the MSCA regulations for Doctoral Researchers will be offered, including a living allowance, a mobility allowance, and a family allowance (if applicable)
  
• An interesting and socially relevant topic for your thesis with future-oriented themes
  
• Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies
  
• An interdisciplinary collaboration on projects in an international, committed and collegial team
  
• Excellent technical equipment and the newest technology
  
• Qualified support through your scientific colleagues
  
• The chance to independently prepare and work on your tasks
  
• The possibility of (location-) flexible working, e.g. home office
  
• A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work
  

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us. Further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality