PhD Position - Development of Biodegradable Neural Implants

Updated: over 1 year ago
Deadline: The position may have been removed or expired!

Your Job:

With the ultimate goal to characterize and understand neuronal networks, as well as to restore lost sensory and motor functions, we aim to develop neural implants for reading and modulating the neural activity of the central and peripheral nervous system in in-vivo applications. One of the main challenges that neural implants face up to date is their long-term stability and the generation of foreign body reactions, such as inflammation and scarring tissue, which can lead to implant malfunction and rejection, and finally to the removal of the device. To extend the lifespan of neural implants, strategies such as design miniaturization and the use of polymeric materials have been implemented to mimic better the mechanical properties of the nervous tissues, however, efforts have not been sufficient for implants to last longer than a year. To circumvent the long-term stability of such devices and to achieve a real seamless integration with the nervous tissue, biodegradable and miniaturized implants will be developed.

Your tasks will include:

  • Development and implementation of new microfabrication techniques
  • Implementation and characterization of different biodegradable polymeric materials
  • Implementation of novel designs for miniaturized neural implants
  • Electrochemical, mechanical, and biological characterization of materials and finalized devices
  • In vitro and in vivo testing of the new devices

Further information on the project is available at:
https://www.fz-juelich.de/ibi/ibi-3/EN/Research/Neuroelectronics/ImplantableElectronics/_node.html

Your Profile:

  • Master’s degree in materials science, physics, electrical or biomedical engineering, microsystems technologies, or related field
  • Ability to communicate with scientists and technicians from various disciplines
  • Independent and analytical way of working
  • Advantageous, yet not mandatory, are experiences with polymer chemistry, microfabrication, and electrochemistry
  • Interest in the field of Bioelectronics and Neurotechnology
  • Passion for science

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! We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

  • Exciting working environment on an attractive research campus, conveniently located in the Cologne-Düsseldorf-Aachen triangle of cities
  • A unique working environment and cooperation in a highly motivated and interdisciplinary team
  • You will be supported by outstanding scientific and technical infrastructure as well as scientific mentoring
  • Development of own scientific profile, including support with the preparation of peer-reviewed scientific publications
  • Flexible working hours
  • Participation in national and international conferences and workshops
  • Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/judocs
  • Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service


The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 65% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60% of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: https://www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

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.



Similar Positions