Post-doctoral research fellow

Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF)

The Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e. V. (IPF) develops innovations in materials science for the fields of resources, health and information. The IPF employs about 500 people in five scientific institutes, administration and technical services. New topics and methods are increasingly explored in flexible research structures such as independent junior groups. The IPF is certified as a family-friendly employer according to the Audit berufundfamilie®.

The IPF-Institute of Biofunctional Polymer Materials is looking for a Post-doctoral research fellow (m/f/d) to work on project "Organic materials for next generation bioelectronic devices".

Project Description

Today electronic systems are proficient at handling information, physical interactions with the environment and can perform complex tasks autonomously and intelligently. However electronic systems are not yet very good at direct communication with living matter. This may be because electronic systems are incompatible with water (the major constituent of life). For example, for a silicon chip, sensor, power source or an electrode to work inside the body, it has to be insulated from moisture by thick protective layers. This makes it challenging to engineer medical bioelectronic implants, brain machine interfaces and neuroprosthetics that are well tolerated inside the body. Metals, semiconductors and plastics are unlikely to fulfil this vision due to their mechanical stiffness, susceptibility to corrosion and delamination and lack of biological function.

In this project we will ask the question: can an entirely new set of materials help us to build electronic devices and systems that are virtually indistinguishable from living matter? We will contribute to the development of a new class of materials known as conductive hydrogels. They are soft, made from more than 90% water and can conduct both ionic and electronic charges. We will explore blending conductive polymers (e.g. polythiophenes) with biomacromolecules found in the extracellular matrix of tissues. We will explore novel monomers, polymerisation techniques to assemble the materials as well as microfabrication technologies to build simple devices. An advanced aim will be to create devices whose biological function can be switched using electronic commands. They will be tested in cell cultures or in vivo as implants.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated, self-driven scientist holding a PhD (or near completion) in a related discipline. Suitable backgrounds are: organic chemistry, synthesis, soft matter physics, hydrogels, biomaterials and others. Applicants should have a track record of publications in their related field and should be able to evidence experience or sustained interest in biological applications. The successful candidate is expected to balance independence and collaborative work, demonstrate high level of communication skills (incl. written English) and capacity to supervise PhD and master students.

We offer

A position in a leading research institute, combined with a highly specialised working environment where you can implement your own ideas and work with a diverse and inclusive team and our international partners. Salary: According to German pay grade TV-L EG 13, starting date: December 2023, duration: 2 years with option for contract extension. The advertised position can also be filled on a part-time basis.

The IPF Dresden strives for gender equality and diversity in all fields. Applications by people with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are equally qualified. Moreover, as the IPF would like to raise the proportion of women in fields where they are underrepresented, women in particular are invited to apply.

Application Process

Full applications should include a 2-page curriculum vitae, a 1-page letter of motivation, certificates, 2-3 references and expected availability date and should be emailed as a single PDF to the Human Resources Department. Please also indicate the number of the Job vacancy.