Germany – Postdoc in Microfluidic EV Isolation at Heidelberg University

PhDFinder; Heidelberg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research university in South Africa is offering a postdoctoral position focused on developing microfluidic technologies for isolating and analyzing extracellular vesicles in cancer research. The successful candidate will design microfluidic devices, connect with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to groundbreaking work on innovative platforms. A PhD in a relevant field and expertise in microfluidics are essential. Offered salary is based on public sector remuneration, with applications due by January 31, 2026.

Benefits

Access to advanced microfabrication facilities

Professional growth opportunities

Networking within a dynamic international research environment

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in microfluidics and experimental system development.
• Hands-on experience with device fabrication techniques such as soft lithography, 3D printing, or cleanroom technology.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills.

Responsibilities

• Designing and developing microfluidic devices for EV enrichment and separation.
• Integrating ultrasound transducers, electronics, and various materials into functional device prototypes.
• Collaborating across disciplines to ensure seamless integration of devices, chemistry, and biological applications.

Skills

Microfluidic system design

Experimental system development

Data analysis

Communication skills in English

Analytical and quantitative skills

Education

PhD in Biomedical Engineering or related field

Tools

3D printing

Soft lithography

Job description

University

Heidelberg University

Country

Germany

Deadline

2026-01-31

Fields of Study

Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry

About the University or Research Institute

Heidelberg University, located in the historic city of Heidelberg, Germany, is recognized as one of Europe’s leading research‑intensive universities. With a vibrant community of approximately 31,300 students and 8,400 employees—including many renowned academics—Heidelberg is celebrated for its commitment to excellence across a broad spectrum of disciplines. The university’s distinguished international profile and robust research infrastructure make it a hub for innovative scientific discovery and interdisciplinary collaboration. Situated in the dynamic Rhine‑Neckar metropolitan region, Heidelberg University offers a stimulating academic environment, access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities, and a supportive network for career development. Germany itself is renowned for its progressive research landscape, generous public research funding, and a high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for ambitious scientists from around the world.

Research Topic and Significance

The advertised postdoctoral position centers on the development of microfluidic technologies for the isolation and analysis of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from ultra‑low volume samples. EVs are increasingly recognized as critical biomarkers for early cancer detection and monitoring, and their effective enrichment and analysis could transform cancer diagnostics and therapeutic strategies. The project aims to harness acoustofluidic principles—using sound waves to manipulate particles at the microscale—to create innovative platforms that enable efficient EV separation, enrichment, and downstream analysis. By integrating device engineering with advanced chemical functionalization and analytical pipelines, the research aspires to push the boundaries of biomedical engineering and provide tangible benefits for clinical oncology. The societal impact of this work is profound: earlier and more accurate cancer detection can lead to better patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and new avenues for personalized medicine.

Project Details

Also See

• Germany – PhD in Microfluidic EV Isolation at Heidelberg University
• Luxembourg – PhD in AI and Machine Learning for Biomedical Imaging at University of Luxembourg
• Germany – PhD in Machine Learning and Structural Dynamics at Technical University of Berlin
• USA – PhD in Human-Computer Interaction at University of Maine
• Sweden – Postdoc in Multi-Agent Systems at Uppsala University

The Successful Candidate Will Join a Newly Established Research Group at Heidelberg University, working on cutting‑edge projects at the interface of acoustofluidics, microfabrication, and EV biology. The core tasks include:

• Designing and developing microfluidic devices for EV enrichment and separation.
• Exploring the physical principles of acoustic trapping and particle manipulation.
• Integrating ultrasound transducers, electronics, and various materials (glass, polymers, 3D printing) into functional device prototypes.
• Developing surface functionalization strategies, including antibody/aptamer coatings and bead chemistries.
• Working with polymers and hybrid materials for the production of single‑use microfluidic devices.
• Interfacing microfluidic systems with analytical tools such as LC‑MS and ELISA.
• Collaborating across disciplines to ensure seamless integration of devices, chemistry, and biological applications.
• Contributing to scientific publications, mentoring PhD students, and supervising interdisciplinary research projects.

This project offers access to advanced microfabrication, chemical, and biological facilities, as well as opportunities for professional growth, networking, and mentoring within a dynamic and collaborative international research environment.

Candidate Profile

The Ideal Applicant Will Possess:

• A PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in microfluidics and experimental system development.
• Hands‑on experience with device fabrication techniques such as soft lithography, 3D printing, or cleanroom technology.
• Proficiency in microfluidic system design and operation.
• (Optional but advantageous) Experience in acoustofluidics, microscale particle manipulation, analytical chemistry, chromatography, or extracellular vesicle research.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills.
• Experience in data analysis and coding (preferably in Python or MATLAB) is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication skills in English, as well as a team‑oriented, independent, and self‑motivated approach to research.
• A high level of motivation to work at the intersection of engineering, chemistry, and life sciences.

Application Process

The position is available for up to 2 years, with a starting date as early as June 1, 2026. Salaries are based on the German public sector remuneration system (TV‑L, E13, 100%).

Application materials should be compiled into a single PDF file and include:

• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Cover letter
• Contact information for two references
• A short project idea (maximum 1 page) describing how you could contribute to the research project
• A portfolio of technical skills relevant to the project (maximum 1/2 page)

Applications should be submitted by 31 January 2026 with the subject line “Postdoc Application [Last Name]”. Commercial references: Please refer to the official advertisement for application details.

For more information, visit: https://www.imseam.uni-heidelberg.de/de/node/1385

Conclusion

This postdoctoral position at Heidelberg University represents a unique opportunity to advance your research career in a world‑class academic setting, contribute to groundbreaking work in cancer diagnostics, and collaborate with leading experts in microfluidics and biomedical engineering. If you are passionate about making a difference in early cancer detection and thrive in interdisciplinary environments, you are strongly encouraged to apply.