Ucam-Sens Fpi Predoctoral Fellowship – Phd Opportunity

buscojobs España; Lugo; Presencial; EUR 50.000 - 70.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

La Universidad Católica de Murcia busca un candidato para una beca de doctorado en el proyecto Close2Cell, que investiga herramientas analíticas innovadoras para la detección de células individuales. Se requiere una maestría en química o disciplinas relacionadas y experiencia en técnicas de detección.

Servicios

Posición de doctorado completamente financiada por 3 años

Mentoría cercana por investigadores reconocidos

Asistencia con la reubicación a Murcia

Entorno de trabajo colaborativo e innovador

Formación

• Maestría completa en disciplinas relacionadas.
• Experiencia deseable en electroquímica o química analítica.
• Proficiencia en inglés (mínimo B2).

Responsabilidades

• Desarrollar herramientas analíticas para la detección en tiempo real.
• Trabajar en estrategias para validar nanoprobes.

Conocimientos

Experiencia en sensores (bio)químicos

Electroquímica

Química analítica

Técnicas de detección celular

Polímeros conductores

Educación

Maestría en Química, Ingeniería Química, Bioquímica o Biotecnología

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

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 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 :

o Include academic background, professional experience, relevant skills

o State degree titles, awarding institutions, and graduation years

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

Requirements

Research Field Chemistry Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Additional Information Work Location(s)

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

J-18808-Ljbffr