Job offer

European Commission; España; Presencial; EUR 70.000 - 90.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

The European Commission is offering a fully funded PhD position at UCAM-SENS, focusing on innovative analytical chemistry projects, specifically in single-cell analysis. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research while developing personal skills through mentorship from leading scientists in the field. Excellent candidates with an M.Sc. in relevant disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Servicios

Fully funded PhD position

Monthly salary aligned with UCAM’s doctoral fellowships

Support with relocation and settling in

Close mentorship from leading researchers

Customized PhD project opportunities

Formación

• Experience in cell culture considered valuable.
• Proficiency in English minimum B2 or equivalent.
• Publications or Master’s thesis, if available.

Responsabilidades

• Conduct real-time, continuous single-cell analysis using innovative analytical tools.
• Develop and validate sensitive nanoprobes for detecting specific ions and proteins.
• Work collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.

Conocimientos

Bio (chemical) sensors

Analytical chemistry

Single-cell detection techniques

Conducting polymers

Educación

M.Sc. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related

Descripción del empleo

Organisation/Company UNIVERSIDAD CATÓLICA DE MURCIA - FUNDACIÓN UNIVERSITARIA SAN ANTONIO DE MURCIA Research Field Chemistry » Analytical chemistry Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Master Positions Country Spain Application Deadline 31 Jul 2025 - 00:00 (Europe/Madrid) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Project Background: Close2Cell

The Close2Cell project addresses the growing need for innovative analytical tools that enable real-time, continuous single-cell analysis of ions and proteins. This project proposes a disruptive sensing approach based on label- free potentiometric nanosensors capable of detecting potassium, sodium, calcium, pH, chloride, bicarbonate, and Interleukin-6 (IL-6).

For IL-6 detection, the approach uniquely leverages endogenous potassium levels within cells as an indirect biomarker, using selective protein– antibody interactions to perturb potassium ion transfer across a selective membrane. This mechanism is integrated into the potentiometric sensor for indirect IL-6 quantification.
The project explores multiple innovation strategies to design and validate versatile potentiometric nanoprobes with high analytical performance tailored for single-cell applications. These sensors will be tested in artificial media, cytosolic samples, and cell- based systems using various cell lines under stimulation (e.g., pharmaceutical exposure). This approach is minimally invasive, cost-effective, and aligned with sustainable innovation in health monitoring.

Close2Cell supports Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 10, promoting Good Health and Well-Being and Reducing Inequalities. The outcomes are expected to contribute significantly to understanding cellular physiology and pathology, particularly in the context of the EU Mission: Cancer.

Candidate Profile – Requirements

We are seeking highly motivated and qualified candidates for a PhD fellowship at UCAM-
SENS. Applicants must have:

• A completed M.Sc. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Nan
otechnology, or related disciplines.
• Hands-on experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable:
o (Bio)chemical sensors and electrochemistry
o Analytical chemistry
o Microneedle or wearable devices
o Single-cell detection techniques
o Conducting polymers
• Experience in cell culture is considered valuable.
• Proficiency in English (minimum level B2 or equivalent). Please attach certification.

Please attach supporting documentation such as publications or Master’s thesis if available.

Desired Personal Skills
At UCAM-SENS, we value candidates who are:

• Goal-oriented and persistent
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively
• Professional in approach and communication
• Able to manage and analyze complex scientific challenges
Beyond academic qualifications, personal motivation and suitability will be strongly considered in the sel
ection process.

Application Requirements
Please submit the following documents:
1. Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
o Include academic background, professional experience, relevant skills
o State degree titles, awarding institutions, and graduation years
2. Motivation Letter (max. 2 pages)
o Explain your interest in UCAM-SENS and this PhD position
o Describe how your background aligns with the project and your future goals
3. Publications or Technical Reports
o Include abstracts and web links if documents are lengthy
4. Reference Letters
o From previous supervisors or academic instructors

What We Offer
• A fully funded 3-year PhD position at UCAM-SENS, an international and dynamic research hub
• Integration into small, focused research clusters led by senior scientists
• Monthly salary in accordance with UCAM’s doctoral fellowships
• Assistance with relocation and settling in Murcia and at UCAM
• A supportive, innovative, and collaborative environment
• The PhD project can be customized to match your skills and interests, covering foundational chemical sensing and applications in health, sports, food, or environmental fields
• Close mentorship by Prof. Maria Cuartero
(ERC Fellow) and Prof. Gastón Crespo, internationally recognized researchers with:
o Over 200 publications (85% Q1, 80% D1)
o 5 international patents
o Several startup ventures
• A mentorship approach focused on growth, mutual respect, and the development of scientific and interpersonal skills

Where to apply

E-mail [e-mail]

Requirements

Research Field Chemistry Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Additional Information

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute UCAM HiTech, Sport & Health Innovation Hub Country Spain Geofield