Université de Nantes
1 week ago
PhD in Chemistry – Magnetically Activatable Nanoassemblies for Targeted Immunomodulation of Autoimmune Hepatitis Nantes Université in France
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Sep 22, 2026
Country
France
University
Université de Nantes
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About this position
PhD opportunity in chemistry at Nantes Université within the CEISAM UMR-CNRS 6230 and the NanoBioMat team.
This project, part of the ANR-funded MAGNETIMA consortium, focuses on the design of magnetically activatable nanoassemblies for the targeted immunomodulation of autoimmune hepatitis. The work combines iron oxide nanoparticles, an anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drug, and an antigenic peptide intended to promote antigen-specific immune tolerance.
The PhD research will cover flash nanoprecipitation, nanoassembly formulation, and detailed physicochemical characterization to understand how composition and structure influence stability, biodegradation, magnetic properties, and drug-release kinetics. The project aims to produce nanoassemblies in the 50–60 nm range and to optimize magnetic-core composition and alternating magnetic field conditions for controlled release in biological environments.
A major component of the work involves Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI), used to quantify nanoassemblies and track their disassembly, degradation, pharmacokinetics, and biodistribution. The selected systems will then be evaluated in collaboration with consortium partners using human macrophage models, three-dimensional hepatic models, and a murine model of autoimmune hepatitis.
The position is especially relevant for candidates interested in the interface of physical chemistry, nanomedicine, colloidal systems, biomaterials, magnetic delivery, and biomedical imaging. The laboratory provides access to extensive equipment including DLS, ELS, NTA, electron microscopy, UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy, HPLC, AAS, FTIR, TGA, and an alternating magnetic field generator. Additional magnetic measurements and MPI studies will be carried out with partner facilities in Rennes and Caen.
The PhD will be based primarily at CEISAM in Nantes, with interdisciplinary collaboration involving NABI in Paris, IRSET in Rennes, and CR2TI in Nantes. The successful candidate should have a Master’s or engineering degree in chemistry or a related field, with strong physical chemistry skills, experimental rigour, curiosity, and the ability to work across chemistry, physics, and biology. Good scientific English is required, and some experimental visits to Caen are expected.
Application deadline: 22 September 2026, 23:59 (Europe/Paris). Start date: 1 October 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree or an engineering degree in chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science, nanoscience, chemical biology, formulation science, or a closely related field. A strong background in physical chemistry and an interest in colloidal systems, nanomedicine, and interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry, physics, and biology are expected. Previous experience in formulation, nanoparticles, polymers, physicochemical characterization, HPLC, cell culture, magnetism, biomedical imaging, or quantitative data analysis would be advantageous, but prior expertise in all of these areas is not required. The successful candidate should demonstrate experimental rigour, scientific autonomy, intellectual curiosity, and an ability to analyse and integrate data from complementary techniques. Good scientific English and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary consortium are required, together with availability for research visits and experimental campaigns in Caen. Previous experience in MPI or magnetic hyperthermia is not mandatory, as dedicated training will be provided.
How to apply
Apply through the official application website. Submit a detailed CV, cover letter, transcripts and rankings for the Master’s or engineering degree, and a letter from the direct supervisor of your Master’s research internship if applicable. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview.
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