Researcher in Analytical Chemistry with a Focus on Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology

The Department of Chemistry
, with more than 200 employees, is one of the largest departments at Stockholm University. The Research spans all areas of chemistry such as analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic and structural chemistry and organic chemistry. The research projects are many from theory to experiment, from basic research to more applied projects often focusing on sustainable chemistry but also advanced analytical methods of chemicals and materials. The department has a very well-developed research infrastructure with state-of-the-art equipment with qualified support from staff scientists.
The department also hosts the Bachelor's degree programme in chemistry and three Master's programmes: analytical chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and organic chemistry. PhD programmes are conducted in five areas: analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry. More information about us, please visit:
Department of Chemistry
.

Project description

The position focuses on pharmaceutical nanotechnology within analytical chemistry, integrating the development of therapeutic delivery systems with quantitative characterization of their physicochemical properties and biological interactions. The research aims to establish how the composition, structure, and surface properties of nanoparticles and polymeric biomaterials influence drug loading, release, stability, and transport in biological environments.
The work includes nanoparticle-based carriers, functional polymers, hydrogels, and electrospun nanofibrous materials for the delivery of small-molecule drugs and biological therapeutics, including peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids. Particular emphasis will be placed on developing analytical approaches and experimental models to investigate controlled release, diffusion through extracellular matrices, and cellular uptake. The research will be conducted in collaboration with academic, clinical, and industrial partners.

Main responsibilities

The researcher will independently plan, conduct, and develop research in pharmaceutical nanotechnology within the group. Main responsibilities include the synthesis, formulation, and functionalization of nanoparticles and polymeric biomaterials for therapeutic delivery, as well as the development and application of analytical methods to evaluate their performance.
The work involves physicochemical characterization of delivery systems, quantitative analysis of drug loading and release kinetics, and investigation of material degradation, therapeutic transport, and interactions with biological components. This includes developing hydrogel-based models of extracellular environments and conducting cell-based studies to assess cellular uptake and biocompatibility.
The researcher will contribute to the development of experimental protocols, reproducible analytical workflows, and laboratory practices. Responsibilities also include supervising and training students, supporting doctoral researchers, coordinating collaborative research activities, and contributing to applications for external research funding.
The successful candidate is expected to disseminate results through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations and to contribute actively to the scientific development of the research group.

Qualification requirements

Researchers are appointed primarily for purposes of research and must hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills within pharmaceutical nanotechnology and to the relevance and quality of previous research in the development and analytical characterization of therapeutic delivery systems.
Applicants must demonstrate experience in the preparation and physicochemical characterization of polymeric biomaterials or nanoparticle-based delivery systems, together with experience in quantitative investigation of drug release, molecular transport, or material–biological interactions. A demonstrated ability to plan and conduct research independently, critically analyse experimental data, and communicate results through peer-reviewed publications is required.
Particular merit will be given to experience in:
Synthesis and functionalization of biocompatible and biodegradable polymers, including polymer–drug conjugates and polyelectrolyte complexes.
Preparation and characterization of hydrogels and electrospun nanofibrous materials for pharmaceutical or biomedical applications.
Development of nanoparticle-based systems for the delivery of biological therapeutics, including peptides, proteins, or nucleic acids.
Quantitative studies of release kinetics and therapeutic diffusion in hydrogels or models of extracellular matrices.
Cell-based evaluation of delivery systems, including cellular uptake and biocompatibility.
Research collaboration across pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, and biomedical research, including collaboration with industry.
Experience in student supervision, research project coordination, and preparation of competitive funding applications is also meritorious.
The applicant must have very good written and spoken English. Emphasis will also be placed on the ability to collaborate effectively, take initiative, and contribute to a productive research environment.

About the employment

This is a full-time, indefinite-term position with a six-month trial period. Start date as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.
Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from the research group leader, Professor Georgios A. Sotiriou,
georgios.sotiriou@su.se
.
For general information about the Department of Chemistry, please contact the Head of Department, Professor Niklas Hedin,
niklas.hedin@su.se
.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.
The instructions for applicants are available at:
How to apply for a position
.