PhD position available to study the interaction of proteins with chiral gold nanoparticles as a function of the physicochemical environment.
Published: 03/11/2026
Deadline: 18/11/2026
Envisaged Job Starting Date:

January 2027

A PhD position is available in the framework of the ERC-Synergy grant Chiral-Pro, GA nº 101166855. The research, which will be carried out at CIC biomaGUNE, in San Sebastián (Spain), focuses on the study of the interaction and assembly of amyloid proteins with (chiral) gold nanoparticles as a function of the physicochemical environment.

CHIRAL-PRO, supported by the European Research Council (ERC) and in collaboration with the University of Antwerp, the University of Michigan and the University of Vigo, is aimed at the tailored formation of handshake complexes (with chirality-directed recognition) between chiral nanoparticles and proteins or protein assemblies. Within this project, the proposed predoctoral research will focus on experimental investigation of the role of environmental factors and of chiral nanoparticles on protein interaction dynamics in biologically relevant systems.

The project will be carried out at the Bionanoplasmonics laboratory (https://www.cicbiomagune.es/org/researchgroup-detail/42447) of CIC biomaGUNE under the supervision of Prof. Luis M. Liz-Marzán and Dr. Pamina Winkler. CIC biomaGUNE (San Sebastian) is a leading research center in the area of bionanomaterials, molecular imaging and regenerative medicine, and maintains a vibrant weekly scientific seminar program by visiting leading scientists. Additional training in soft skills and technologies covered by the CIC biomaGUNE technical platforms is offered to researchers within the in-house training program. In 2018 CIC biomaGUNE was recognized as Maria Maeztu Unit of Excellence.

The proposed research line will focus on tracking the dynamics of amyloid proteins how they form oligomers and incipient aggregates on biological membranes using time-lapse atomic force microscopy in liquid environments. First, the influence of the physicochemical environment—including metabolites, salt ions, and pH—on the nanoscale diffusion, force and topography of amyloid proteins and their assemblies will be investigated on biological membranes of different compositions. Subsequently, the interaction between amyloid proteins and chiral gold nanoparticles of different morphologies will be deciphered. Third, the collective influence of the physicocehmical environemnt and chiral nanoparticles on amyloid protein dynamics and assembly will be elucidated.

Required Education Level:

A BsC and MSc in a relevant area of (bio-)chemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, or related areas. Experience in the fields of protein chemistry, advanced bioimaging techniques such as atomic force microscopy are positively evaluated.

Required Skills/Qualifications:

The candidates should be eligible to join a doctoral programme for the 2026/2027 academic year. They are expected to have interest in multidisciplinary work, motivation to learn from a diversity of scientific areas and the capacity to work in an international environment. Good interpersonal skills as well as written and oral communication skills in English are required.

Duration:

Temporary full time predoctoral contract with an initial duration of 1 year renewable up to 36 months. According to the contract regulation, the candidate must be enrolled in a doctoral program on the date of joining the center.

Project Funding:

CHIRAL-PRO - 101166855 - (European Research Council (ERC) - Horizon Europe)

Informal Inquiries:

Informal requests for additional information can be sent to Luis Liz-Marzan at llizmarzan@cicbiomagune.es

Applications sent directly to the emails listed above will be NOT be accepted.

Equal opportunities Policy:

CIC biomaGUNE is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to: age, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by European, national, or local law.

Open Transparent and Merit Based Recruitment Policy:

You can check here CIC biomaGUNE OTM-R Policy.

How To Apply:

Submit your application with a motivation letter stating why you are interested in this position, your CV, the contact details of two academics who can provide a reference using the "Apply to this Job Offer" button.

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