Research Associate – Pharmaceutical Biomaterials

Research Associate – Pharmaceutical Biomaterials

Join the Research Associate – Pharmaceutical Biomaterials role at Friedrich Schiller University Jena . The position is part-time (50%, 20 hours per week) and is a fixed‑term role for up to four years with the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree. Commencing on 01 March 2026 (or earlier).

About the research project and laboratory

The project focuses on developing innovative strategies for the pulmonary application of therapeutic proteins, with a particular emphasis on mucosal immunization and lung disease treatment, including cancer. You will generate and characterize inhalable protein formulations using silk as a biopolymer carrier. Work will involve advanced pharmaceutical, biological, biochemical, and chemical methods within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Learn more at .

Responsibilities

• Develop and characterize nanoparticulate silk‑based formulations.
• Conduct physicochemical and functional testing to ensure formulation efficacy.
• Establish and apply in‑vitro lung models, including state‑of‑the‑art air‑liquid‑interface cell cultures.
• Analyze research findings, prepare publication‑quality figures, and author scientific manuscripts.
• Present results at local, national, and international conferences.
• Carry out an independent PhD project in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.
• Contribute to student supervision in laboratory courses and internships (German language skills beneficial), and assist in training diploma students or research assistants.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative team environment.

Profile

• Completed university degree in Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related fields.
• (Optional) License as a pharmacist.
• Strong interest in the intersection of pharmacy, biotechnology, and biomaterials.
• Ability to work independently and organized, combined with a strong team spirit.
• High flexibility, commitment, and a proactive, solution‑oriented approach to research challenges.
• Excellent communication skills in English; German proficiency is advantageous.

What we offer

• Integration into national and international scientific networks.
• Structured doctoral training with professional mentoring, soft‑skills development, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Opportunity to specialize in Pharmaceutical Analytics and Technology – Weiterbildung zum Fachapotheker im Gebiet „Pharmazeutische Analytik und Technologie“.
• Vibrant cultural and scientific environment in Jena – the "City of Science".
• University health promotion and a wide range of sports activities.
• Attractive fringe benefits, e.g., capital formation benefits (VL), occupational pension (VBL), and a job ticket with public transport discounts.
• Remuneration based on the TV‑L collective agreement, salary scale E13, including a special annual payment.
• 30 days of vacation annually, plus two additional days off on 24 and 31 December.

The advertised position is a fixed‑term role for a maximum of four years and offers part‑time hours (20 hours per week).

Individuals with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability. We are committed to diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.

For informal inquiries, contact Dr. Simone Berger, lead researcher for this PhD position:

Apply by January 16, 2026 using our online application form.

For additional information for applicants and privacy policies, please refer to the data privacy and applicant information documents.