PhD student position in Nanotechnology with focus on 3D printing of oral dosage forms utiliziing microneedle injections - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Admission to PhD studies in the subject Engineering Science with Specialization in Nanotechnology and Functional Materials.

The Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials (NFM) is part of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the Ångström Laboratory. Researchers at NFM have extensive experience in research into additive manufacturing, biocompatibility and nanosafety, organic energy storage, as well as development of functional porous materials.

The Department of Pharmacy at Uppsala University is an interdisciplinary environment at the center of the pharmaceutical arena. With frontline research, first-class education and extensive collaborations we constitute a driving force in the development of our academic field. In this inspiring environment our rich diversity of research groups, several of international prominence, develop and conduct work of great scientific importance. Among our core competences are computational modelling and simulations, in vitro ADME models, advanced in vivo methods and societal aspects from optimizing the use of drugs in individuals to societal pharmaceutical policies. Together, we form a unique cluster of academic competences within pharmaceutical sciences, playing a key role in shaping the future of pharmacy in both Sweden and globally.

Project description: The project is linked to the Uppsala Diabetes Centre, a knowledge forum on diabetes led and run by Uppsala University. This new project will be carried out both at the Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials and at the Department of Pharmacy with the aim of producing 3D printed oral dosage forms that utilizes microneedles for administration of insulin and GLP-1 analogues for efficient treatment of diabetes.

In the project we will design and print prototype microneedle-based oral dosage forms suitable for efficient delivery of macromolecular drugs. We also aim to identify a suitable production technique and to identify excipient combinations and to select microneedle-based dosage forms and explore them for loading, release and systemic delivery of APIs. The project will result in proof-of-concept data around microneedle-based delivery of macromolecules.

Work duties
The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

The work tasks in this project will include use of additive manufacturing techniques such as two-photon polymerization and extrusion, design and development of formulations, drug loading, drug release, and characterization of dosage forms.

Qualification requirements
MSc in chemical engineering, pharmacy, materials chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology or related fields.

We require very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Additional qualifications
It is positive, although not a requirement, if the candidate has some experience in one or more of the following fields: CAD, additive manufacturing, drug formulation or characterization techniques

Personal qualities, such as the ability to manage and run scientific projects and to simultaneously interact with other researchers are very important. The applicant needs to be determined, structured and able to work effectively both individually and in groups.

Admission requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programs if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
•  has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

Instructions for application:
Your application should include the following:

1) A brief personal letter where you briefly describe yourself, why you want to become a PhD student and why you are suitable for the position

2) A CV/résume (max 2 pages)

3) Certified copies of your Master’s degree and course grades

4) Copies (or drafts thereof) of thesis work and other documents, such as publications, which you wish to invoke.

5) Name and contact information to two persons who have agreed to act as references for you, alternatively, letter(s) of recommendation. Your relationship to each of the references should be stated.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 2022-009-01 or as otherwise agreed. Placement: Uppsala. Salary according to local agreement for PhD student. 

For further information about the position please contact:  Dr. Jonas Lindh jonas.lindh@angstrom.uu.se or Professor Christel Bergström, christel.bergstrom@farmaci.uu.se

Please submit your application by 1st of August 2022, UFV-PA 2022/2703

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