UOL
Call for Applications for Multiple PhD Positions at the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) for Quantum Dynamics and Control (QDC)
✓ Funded (Competition)
⏰ Closing Soon
🎓 Biochemistry
🎓 Biomedical Engineering
🎓 Biophysics
🎓 Physical Chemistry
interdisciplinary
MSCA
biocolloids
diffusion
glycocalyx
glycoscience
microscopy
Horizon Europe
molecular interactions
soft matter physics
Fully funded MSCA PhD at the University of Leeds exploring biocolloid transport and diffusion in glycocalyces. The project combines advanced microscopy, theory, and simulations to uncover physical rules governing molecular interactions, enabling applications in drug delivery and infection control.
Project Description
The GLYCOCALYX Doctoral Network is a Horizon Europe MSCA programme offering interdisciplinary PhD training across chemistry, physics, and biology. This project focuses on understanding how biocolloids (e.g., proteins, vesicles, pathogens) interact with and diffuse through the glycocalyx—a dense sugar coating surrounding mammalian cells.
The glycocalyx plays a crucial role in cell communication, immune response, and pathogen defence. However, its structure and dynamics remain poorly understood due to limited analytical tools and theoretical frameworks.
This PhD will develop new experimental and computational approaches to study the transport and enrichment of biocolloids in model glycocalyces with tunable properties. By integrating advanced microscopy, molecular modelling, and theoretical analysis, the project aims to define universal physical principles governing diffusion and interaction in these systems.
The outcomes will enable the rational design of strategies to control molecular transport across cell surfaces, with applications in targeted drug delivery, infection prevention, and biomedical engineering.
The candidate will be part of an international research network, collaborating with academic and industrial partners, and participating in training events, secondments, and workshops across Europe.
Entry Requirements
Degree in physics, chemistry, biophysics, biomedical engineering, or related field
Strong interest in interdisciplinary research
Experience in experimental or computational research (preferred)
Good communication and teamwork skills
Must meet MSCA mobility rules (not residing in the UK for more than 12 months in the last 3 years)
No prior PhD
Strong interest in interdisciplinary research
Experience in experimental or computational research (preferred)
Good communication and teamwork skills
Must meet MSCA mobility rules (not residing in the UK for more than 12 months in the last 3 years)
No prior PhD
How to Apply
Apply online via the University of Leeds application portal.
Application should include:
CV
Motivation letter
Academic transcripts and certificates
Contact details of two referees
For enquiries, contact: r.richter@leeds.ac.uk
Application deadline: March 30, 2026
Application should include:
CV
Motivation letter
Academic transcripts and certificates
Contact details of two referees
For enquiries, contact: r.richter@leeds.ac.uk
Application deadline: March 30, 2026
Eligibility
UK/Home
EU
International
Supervisor Profile
RR
Ralf Richter
University of Leeds, Faculty of Biological Sciences
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