Svetlana Santer

Open PhD position in synthetic cell division , condensate endocytosis , membrane biophysics , and soft matter physics at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces in collaboration with the University of Potsdam through the IMPRS on Functional Material Design . The project uses patterned light from a spatial light modulator to confine illumination to micron-scale regions of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs), a minimal cell model. The goal is to build a synthetic membrane platform that can be optically programmed to reproduce or release cargo, with potential applications in bottom-up synthetic biology and light-triggered drug delivery. Ideal applicants hold an MSc in (bio)physics, chemistry, soft matter science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with membrane biophysics and/or colloid and interface science is a plus. Experience with fluorescence/confocal microscopy, vesicle preparation, or optical setups is welcome but not required. Supervision is by Prof. Rumiana Dimova at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces and Prof. Svetlana Santer at the University of Potsdam. Application instructions are provided on the IMPRS-FMD website. Deadline: 15 September 2026 .