Fully Funded PhD Position in Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Bio-nanotechnology at University of South Bohemia

The Faculty of Science at the University of South Bohemia announces a fully funded 4-year PhD position in Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Bio-nanotechnology, starting January 2026. The project, funded by the Czech Science Foundation (GACR 26-22037S), focuses on engineering self-assembling nanoreactors for light-driven chemistry and carbon dioxide capture, aiming to develop sustainable solutions for the chemical industry. Research will involve genetic engineering, protein purification, and the self-assembly of viral nanocontainers. The nanoreactor design incorporates photosystem I (PSI) and engineered redox enzymes, facilitating efficient electron transfer and CO2 reduction into methanol. The project includes advanced structural and spectroscopic characterization, with additional phases involving artificial light-harvesting antennas using bacteriochlorophyll pigment aggregates or quantum dots. Applicants will gain experience in interdisciplinary research, including biochemistry, molecular biology, nanoscience, and environmental applications. The project is a collaboration between Prof. Roman Tuma (University of South Bohemia, main supervisor) and Dr. Jakub Psencik (Charles University, Prague, external co-supervisor), with further collaboration with the University of Leeds for quantum dot and nanostructure research. Eligibility requires an MSc in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field, a strong interest in biotechnology and nanoscience, and fluency in English. The position is fully funded, covering stipend and research costs for four years. The research will be conducted in state-of-the-art laboratories in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic. To apply, send your CV to Prof. Roman Tuma at [email protected] by March 31, 2026. For more details, visit the project and faculty websites linked above.