PhD Student (m/f/d)

Division 1.9 - Chemical and Optical Sensing

To strengthen our team in the division “Chemical and Optical Sensing” in Berlin-Adlershof, starting 23.02.2026, we are looking for a

PhD Student (m/f/d) in the field of Organic Chemistry or al closely-related subject

Salary group 13 TVöD
Temporary contract for 36 months
The working time is 100%

The Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) is a materials research organization in Germany. Our mission is to ensure safety in technology and chemistry. We perform research and testing in materials science, materials engineering and chemistry to improve the safety of products and processes. At BAM we do research that matters. Our work covers a broad array of topics in the focus areas of energy, infrastructure, environment, materials, and chemistry and process engineering.

We are looking for talented people to join us.

Your responsibilities include:

• Design and synthesis of ultra-bright, magnetic, molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) for the targeted detection of glycosylated tumour antigens (e. g., sialic acid, STn, Tn)
• Advanced characterization of nanoMIPs using state-of-the-art spectroscopic and analytical techniques
• Application of nanoMIPs in rare cell isolation workflows using flow cytometry (FACS) and magnetic separation technologies
• Integration of nanoMIP-based systems into proteomic workflows to discover novel biomarkers
• Active contribution to the development of innovative single-cell and multiomics methods for analysing circulating tumour cells (CTCs) in liquid biopsy applications
• Collaborative work with leading academic and industrial partners across Europe within the EU-funded project MIPrecise
• Participation in project-related secondments to broaden technical skills, gain cross-sector experience, and build a strong professional network
• Dissemination of research findings through high-impact publications and presentations at international conferences

Your qualifications:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in chemistry or a closely related discipline, completed with excellent academic performance
• Solid knowledge and experience in preparative organic chemistry or synthetic polymer chemistry
• Hands-on experience with optical spectroscopy (e. g., UV/Vis, fluorescence, Raman)
• Genuine interest in sensing systems and their real-world applications
• Passion for nanomaterials and cellular research
• Practical experience in synthetic receptors and molecular imprinting is a valuable advantage
• Proven ability to communicate scientific results effectively through writing and presentations
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken
• Strong scientific curiosity, self-motivation, and a proactive mindset in tackling research challenges
• Structured and analytical approach to problem-solving, with a focus on innovation
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills, with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration
• High level of responsibility, reliability, and professional integrity
• Creative thinking and the ability to conceptualize and develop novel research strategies
• Eligibility according to the MSCA (EU Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions) mobility and recruitment criteria

We offer:

• Engaging and diverse research tasks in a dynamic, forward-looking environment at the intersection of science, industry, and societal impact
• Access to cutting-edge laboratories and infrastructure - work with the latest technologies in your field
• Freedom to contribute your own ideas and actively shape innovative research directions
• Full integration into a prestigious EU excellence project, offering both practical and theoretical development beyond your doctoral focus
• International secondments with academic and industrial partners of the MIPrecise consortium - gain insights into complementary disciplines and expand your career horizons
• Supportive work-life balance through flexible working hours, mobile work options, 30 vacation days, and up to 12 additional compensatory days annually

Your application:

We welcome applications via the online application form by 30.11.2025. Alternatively, you can also send your application by post, quoting the reference number 193/25-1.9 to:

Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung
Referat Z.3 - Personal
Unter den Eichen 87
12205 Berlin
GERMANY
www.bam.de

Dr. Rurack will be glad to answer any specific questions you may have. Please get in touch via the telephone number +49 30 8104-1190 and/or by email to Knut.Rurack@bam.de.

BAM promotes professional equality between women and men. We therefore particularly welcome applications from women. At the same time, we strive to reflect social diversity. Every application is therefore welcome, regardless of gender, cultural or social background, religion, ideology or sexual identity.

In addition, BAM has set itself the goal of promoting the professional participation of people with severe disabilities. The fulfillment of the job requirements is considered on an individual basis. Severely disabled persons or persons of equal status will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

The advertised position requires a low level of physical aptitude.