PhD/research position in 19F MRI smart nanoprobes for stroke

We are looking for a PhD candidate to develop smart contrast agents based on fluorinated probes to study the role of metalloproteinases after stroke by 19F MRI. Fluorine (19F) is an interesting label for diagnosis and biomedical imaging due to the lack of background signal, allowing for unequivocal detection of fluorinated probes. In this context, fluorinated NPs are emerging as alternative contrast agents or imaging probes for diagnosis by 19F MRI. Apart from pure diagnosis, one of the most innovative fields in which fluorine probes are being developed is the design of smart or OFF/ON probes. In this sense, the development of new contrast agents that provide functional information regarding certain pathology rather than only achieving image enhancement is one of the main topics in contrast enhanced MRI development nowadays, also for 19F MRI. Since there is no detectable background signal, fluorinated probes are ideal candidates for the design of OFF/ON systems, in which the signal is temporarily shut down and subsequently triggered by selected external stimuli. This feature can be tuned so that the appearance of signal is a consequence of the processes or phenomena of interest, gaining in this manner additional information regarding biomarkers of interest in situ and in real time.

What we offer:

–       18 month contract (starting 1st January 2022) to start working on the project and apply for several fellowships.

–        To work in a multidisciplinary project involving probe design and synthesis of nanoparticles, in vitro validation, in vivo validation in a stroke animal model, magnetic resonance applications and bioimaging.

–       To join Instituto Biofisika, a leading centre in biophysics, located in the UPV/EHU campus and in close interaction with other centres and faculties, with access to singular infrastructures.

What we look for:

–       A motivated student with background in chemistry. Knowledge on nanotechnology and/or biomedicine will also be valued.

–       Good academic record in order to succeed in grant applications.

–       The candidate must hold a Master that gives access to doctoral studies.

 Applications should be addressed to Mónica Carril ([email protected]) and sent via e-mail with the subject ‘PhD nanoprobes stroke’ in one single PDF. It is recommended that applications are made as soon as possible as they will be considered upon arrival. They must include:

1.    Cover letter highlighting their interest in the position and the main research achievements. 

2.    Curriculum vitae. 

3.    Full academic record with the final average grade of the degree. 

4.    Name and contact address (e-mail) of at least one academic referee.