This project aims to revolutionize the field of minimally invasive, orally delivered miniaturized devices, with a focus on improving therapeutic delivery, diagnostics, and interventions for gastrointestinal conditions.

These positions are part of Work Package 1: Ingestibles for Therapeutics, housed within the IDUN research section at DTU Health Tech. This interdisciplinary team, led by Prof. Anja Boisen, is globally recognized for its cutting-edge work in drug delivery and sensing technologies.

About the Research Projects

We are recruiting for three distinct PhD projects:

1. Fabrication and Formulation of Micromotors and Needles
   • Design and characterize micromotors, nanoparticles, and/or needles.
   • Integrate these components into ingestible devices for enhanced drug release and mucosal penetration.
2. Development of Mucoadhesive Patches
   • Formulate and fabricate patches with enhanced retention capabilities.
   • Optimize materials and designs for effective drug release in the intestine.
3. Design and Fabrication of Hydrogel-Based Kirigami/Origami Devices
   • Create hydrogel-based structures for self-configurable drug delivery.
   • Innovate designs that promote close and effective interaction with the gastrointestinal tract.

Eligibility Requirements

General Requirements:

• Educational Background: A Master’s degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in materials science, chemical engineering, biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or related fields.
• Mobility Rule: Applicants must not have resided or worked in Denmark for more than 12 months in the last 36 months.
• Early-Stage Researcher: Applicants should be in the first four years of their research career and not yet hold a PhD.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in English is mandatory.

Project-Specific Requirements:

1. Project #1: Micromotors and Needles
   • Expertise in materials science, micro/nano fabrication, or drug delivery devices.
   • Experience in in vitro/in vivo characterization is beneficial.
2. Project #2: Mucoadhesive Patches
   • Strong background in materials formulation and fabrication techniques.
   • Experience with mucoadhesive materials or drug delivery systems is advantageous.
3. Project #3: Hydrogel-Based Devices
   • Expertise in hydrogel design, mechanical properties, or origami/kirigami systems.
   • Familiarity with fabrication and material characterization techniques.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interdisciplinary research in collaboration with academic, clinical, and industrial partners.
• Design, fabricate, and test innovative ingestible devices.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
• Participate in secondments and training events as part of the INTELLI-INGEST network.

What We Offer

• Fully Funded Scholarship: Generous salary and benefits as per the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.
• World-Class Research Facilities: Access to cutting-edge laboratories and resources at DTU.
• International Collaboration: Work within a multidisciplinary, European research network involving top-tier academic and industrial partners.
• Career Development: Participation in structured training programs and secondments to prepare for careers in academia, industry, and beyond.
• Inclusive Work Environment: A supportive, diverse, and vibrant research culture.

Application Process

Deadline:3 January 2025 (23:59 Danish time)

To apply, submit the following documents as a single PDF file via DTU’s online portal:

1. Cover Letter: Indicate your motivation, research interests, and the project(s) you are applying for.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight relevant education, research experience, and publications.
3. Academic Transcripts: Provide official transcripts and descriptions of grading scales.
4. Supporting Documents: Include BSc/MSc diploma(s) and additional materials (e.g., TOEFL scores, if applicable).

Incomplete applications or those received after the deadline will not be considered.