Application deadline: 30/06/2025
As a part of funded project, a 65% Ph.D. position (Dr. rer. nat.) is offered by the Department of Functional Materials in Medicine and Dentistry (FMZ) and the Eye Hospital ofthe University Hospital Würzburg. The position focuses on polymeric biomaterials synthesis and drug delivery systems. The research will be conducted atresearch laboratories at FMZ and the Eye Hospital providing an excellent opportunity for cutting-edge research at the intersection of material science and ophthalmology applications.

The project involves the development of hydrogels for intravitreal applications, focusing on creating advanced biomaterials as vitreous substitute and ocular drug delivery. A polymer library will be synthesized using click chemistry techniques enabling the precise formation of polymers with varied structures. These polymers as hydrogels will be thoroughly characterized with respect to their mechanical, rheological, and degradation properties as well as their ability to maintain structural integrity inside the eye. Key properties such as degradation rates, glass transition temperature, elasticity, and water absorption capacity will be evaluated. Additionally, hydrogels will be loaded with pharmacologically active substances and their biological efficacy, as well as drug release profiles, will be assessed in ocular cell cultures. The hydrogels will also be tested in 3D ocular models to further evaluate their potential for intravitreal applications and sustained drug delivery.