Physicist / Engineer as PhD Student – Microfluidic Sample Preparation for Nanopore Analysis (m/f/d)

The University of Freiburg is worth a change: With its more than 500-year history, it is one of the most renowned and research-intensive universities in Germany. Here you work in a unique variety of subjects, perspectives and people for research and teaching at the highest level – in one of the most popular cities in Germany. The personnel policy of the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg is based on the principles of equality and diversity. The university is strongly committed to the goal of a family-friendly university. The Institute of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK) of the University of Freiburg is looking for one PhD:in (m/w/d) – microfluidic sample preparation for nanopore analysis Application deadline: 13. February 2026 Entry date: At the next possible time Scope of work: Full-time job Reference number: 00004763 Who we are The Institute of Microsystems Technology (IMTEK) of the University of Freiburg is one of the world's leading research institutions in the field of microsystems technology. In the Department of Microfluidic Platforms at the Chair of Application Development, we develop new microfluidic technologies for next-generation diagnostic tools. Our current focus is on the label-free analysis of individual molecules with nanopores, where the smallest ionic currents or tunnel currents allow the identification and quantification of nucleic acids, proteins or peptide sequences. The aim is to simplify, miniaturize and automate large-scale device-based analysis methods today in order to make them widely usable for diagnostics. The efficient sample preparation and the targeted transport of the analytes to and through the pores are the key. The automated sample preparation systems for nanopore analysis therefore form the core of the project on which this site is based. The work combines microsystems technology, physics and engineering to enable new approaches to molecular diagnostics in medical and environmental applications. To strengthen our team, we are looking for a dedicated physicist / a physicist or engineer (promotion agency or postdoc), who actively contributes to our research in the field of nanopore analysis.

Design and implementation of microfluidic systems for automated sample preparation for nanopore sensor systems. Development and integration of modules for physical and chemical sample pretreatment (e.g. filtration, lysis, enrichment, purification) in Lab-on-a-chip structures. Building and characterizing fluidic test platforms with precise control of flow, temperature and fields. Experimental studies on flow dynamics, particle transport and molecular capture in nanopore environments. Participation in automation concepts including sensor integration, actuator control and embedded electronics. Close cooperation with interdisciplinary teams from engineering, physics and biosciences to translate concepts into functional prototypes. Documentation, presentation and publication of results at international conferences and scientific journals

Completed university studies (master or equivalent) in physics, microsystems engineering or a related field Outstanding interest in microfluidic systems for molecular analysis and in interdisciplinary cooperation Experience or readiness to incorporate CAD-based design tools, simulation software (e.g. COMSOL, MATLAB) or embedded control systems Practical experience in experimental work, in particular in building, testing and validation of prototypes Very good English knowledge of word and writing; German knowledge is advantageous High self-initiative, creativity and strong team skills

We offer you the opportunity to contribute to the development of nanopore analysis in a highly interdisciplinary environment with the most modern infrastructure. You work in a dynamic team that bridges basic research and application-oriented development and converts scientific results into practical solutions. The body shall be terminated until 31. December 2028. Remuneration is made according to TV-L E13. We are particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position that we have written out here. .