PhD Position in Advanced Characterization of Soft and Hybrid Nanoparticles: Combining small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS) 100%

"As Switzerland's incubator for innovation, Empa's research provides answers to the most pressing challenges facing industry." Prof. Dr. Katharina Maniura, Biointerfaces "Empa's research on the highest international level plays a leading role in the advancement of technology." Prof. Dr. Ayodhya Nath Tiwari, Thin Films and Photovoltaics "Empa's materials science and technology research is of great benefit to society in the fields of energy, mobility, environment, construction and health." Prof. Dr. Bernd Nowack, Technology and Society "For my research projects I use first-class equipment. This is extremely important in dynamic 3D radiography." Dr. Ameet Aiyangar, Mechanical Systems Engineering "Empa offers good employment conditions and supports equal opportunities. I consider this very important." Irene Ferretto, Advanced Materials Processing "Empa has sites in three attractive regions in Switzerland. This also ensures a good quality of life." Dr. Shanyu Zhao, Building Energy Materials and Components "We enjoy working in a team. For us it is important that Empa pursues topics like sustainability and innovation." Michael Levy and Nikola Tatalovic, Finances/Controlling "My work is exciting and highly diverse – and I am right there when research projects are being implemented in NEST, Empa's research and innovation building." Yannic Trüb, Real Estate Management "At Empa I value the good work environment and international collaboration." Subas Scheibler, Particles-Biology Interactions PhD Position in Advanced Characterization of Soft and Hybrid Nanoparticles: Combining small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS) Share Apply now Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.At Empa’s Centre for X-ray Analytics, we investigate bio-nano assemblies from lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to polymer-based nanosystems using powerful analytical tools such as small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS). Our goal is to bring quantitative insights into how soft-matter systems self-assemble and function, with a particular emphasis on DNA/RNA-LNPs for next-generation gene therapeutics. Your tasks This PhD position is part of a larger EU-funded project focused on the metrological characterization of nanoparticles for healthcare and industrial applications. As a PhD candidate, you will: – Develop and refine SAXS and FCCS methods to quantify size, concentration, density and internal structure of diverse nanoparticle systems. – Investigate model particles such as liposomes, mesoporous silica and silver nanoparticles. – Investigate RNA-LNP formulations for next-generation gene therapeutics, examining how lipid components and nucleic acids interact and self-assemble. – Apply data analysis and modeling to deepen understanding of nanoparticle architectures, and contribute to standardization-relevant method development. – Collaborate with academic partners and potential industrial contacts to implement, validate, and/or refine quantitative methods needed to overcome key challenges in nanoparticle characterization. Your profile – Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Biophysics, Materials Science, or a related field. – Strong interest or background in soft matter, self-assembly, or nanoparticle systems (e.g., lipid- or polymer-based). – Quantitative mindset with good data analysis and problem-solving skills. – Prior hands-on experience in scattering methods (SAXS, SANS) or correlation spectroscopy (FCS, FCCS) is a plus. – Demonstrated competence in data analysis (e.g., in Python, MATLAB, or similar) or in analyzing scattering data is desirable. – Proficiency in English (German is a plus). – Enthusiasm to engage in multidisciplinary and international collaborations. Our offer We provide an international and stimulating research environment with excellent infrastructure for personal and professional development. You will be employed full-time (three years with the potential extension by one additional year) at Empa St. Gallen in the Bio-Nano Assembly research group, which is part of the Center for X-ray Analytics, the Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles and the Laboratory for Biointerfaces. This dynamic environment in the ETH Domain offers state-of-the-art facilities, expert mentorship, and an ideal platform to advance your scientific career. Starting Date: As soon as possible or upon agreement.We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities – that's what counts.We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.SarahStüdli, Bereichspersonalleiterin / HR Partner Questions? Dr.SilvaBruno Junior Group leader Center for X-ray Analytics https://www.empa.ch/de/web/empa/center-for-x-ray-analytics1 Your future place of work Empa Lerchenfeldstrasse 5 9014St. Gallen Empa as an employer Innovative, sustainable, meaningful activities Creating added value for society International, multicultural working environment Freedom to create and develop Culture of inclusion and respect Excellent balance between different areas of life Multiple award-winning and certified employer Benefits for rail, mobile, childcare, catering, etc. Good to know Empa website Working in Switzerland Employment process Conditions of employment Apply now