PhD Candidate Position in Macromolecular Chemistry
PhD Candidate Position in Macromolecular Chemistry
at the University of Düsseldorf (Heinrich Heine University), Germany, in the group of
Prof. Dr Guillaume Delaittre
at the Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry.
The group develops innovative polymeric and colloidal materials at the interface of chemistry, materials science, and biotechnology. Research directions include bio-based, degradable, biocompatible, and functional polymers, polysaccharides, protein–polymer conjugates, and nanomaterials derived from these systems, with a clear focus on sustainable materials and biomedical applications.
The doctoral project will involve the synthesis and modification of small organic molecules and novel synthetic polymers, and their incorporation into nanomaterials. The work includes state-of-the-art macromolecular synthesis methods such as reversible-deactivation radical polymerization and ring-opening polymerization, together with extensive characterization using techniques such as NMR, UV-Vis, IR, Raman spectroscopy, size-exclusion chromatography, mass spectrometry, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic light scattering, SEM, TEM, and SAXS.
The position also includes teaching- and mentoring-related duties, including supervision of Bachelor and Master theses and participation in practical courses in macromolecular chemistry or organic chemistry.
Eligible candidates should have a Master degree or equivalent in (bio)chemistry, ideally with hands-on experience in macromolecular synthesis and characterization or at least organic synthesis. Strong English skills are essential; German is a strong advantage, and applicants who are not yet fluent should be willing to learn quickly. The group emphasizes collaborative, multicultural work and strong communication skills.
Funding details indicate a 3-year contract (1 + 2) with a salary of more than 1900 Euro after taxes, corresponding to 50% of the E13 German salary scale.
Application deadline: 21 August 2026. Planned start: October–November 2026. Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, university certificates, and contact details for 2–3 referees by email to Prof. Dr. G. Delaittre, using the subject line “PhD Application 2026-1”. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
