Contrato FPI

Background

The Close2Cell project addresses the growing demand for new analytical tools that target real-time and continuous single-cell analysis of ions and the proteome. The Close2Cell methodology is conceived to develop a disruptive sensing concept based on label-free potentiometric nanosensors for potassium, sodium, calcium, pH, chloride, bicarbonate and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). For IL-6, the analytical fundament is based on the monitoring of endogenous potassium concentration in the cell as an indirect indicator. Thus, selective protein-antibody bio interaction is explored as a quantifiable disturbance of the mass transfer of potassium across the selective membrane included in the potentiometric sensor. Several innovation paths and research strategies will be explored for the development of versatile potentiometric nanoprobes, providing analytical figures of merit and performances that meet the requirements for cell-based measurements. The nanoprobes will be exhaustively validated, including artificial samples and cytosol analysis. Then, cell-based experiments considering different cell lines before and after stimulation (e.g., pharmaceutical administration to the extracellular medium) will be performed. The Close2Cell approach, which is minimally perturbative for the cell and requires minimal costs, will promote sustainable economic investment in single-cell analyses and will open new possibilities for fundamental research in related fields, including clinical investigations. Accordingly, this project primarily targets sustainable development goals number 3 and 10 related to Good Health and Well-Being and Reduced Inequalities. New insights into cell physiology and pathology are expected to lead to significant advances that will improve EU population health and quality of life, especially in relation to the EU Mission: Cancer. Close2Cell will develop cost-efficient analytical tools aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

Required:

The PhD student candidates must have:

• Completed a M.Sc. degree in Chemistry or Engineering Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience in (bio)chemical sensors, electrochemistry, analytical chemistry, wearable and microneedle devices, single-cell detection and conducting polymers is very welcome. Attach publications and/or master's thesis related to the above experience.
• Advanced English level (B/6). Attach your English certification.
• Valuable experience in cell culture

General Skills

To succeed as a doctoral student at UCAM-SENS you need to be goal-oriented and persevering in your work. During the selection process, candidates will be assessed on their ability to:

• independently pursue his or her work,
• collaborate with others,
• have a professional approach and
• analyse and work with complex issues.
• Advanced English level
• After the qualification requirements, great emphasis will be placed on personal qualities and personal suitability.

Applications must include the following elements:

• CV including your relevant professional experience and knowledge (maximum 2 pages long). Details of the bachelor's and master’s degree title, year, and university.
• Application letter with a brief description of why you want to pursue research studies in the UCAM-SENS, about what your academic and personal interests are and how they relate to your previous studies and future goals (maximum 2 pages long).
• Representative publications or technical reports: For large documents, please provide a summary (abstract) and a web link to the full text.
• Reference letters from previous supervisors and/or teachers.

What we offer

• The possibility to obtain a PhD degree (3-4 years) in a dynamic and international research environment, the UCAM-SENS.
• A workplace divided into small clusters supervised by a senior researcher.
• Monthly salary according to PhD student salary agreement in the UCAM.
• Work and study in the UCAM.
• Help to be relocated and settled in Murcia and at UCAM.
• Excellent scientific and human environment.
• The “PhD project” is to be personalized and adjusted according to the individual skills and desired objectives. It is desired to cover fundamental aspects of chemical sensing and then applications related to Health, Sports, Food and the Environment, among others.
• Close supervision by Prof. Cuartero (ERC Fellow) and Prof. Crespo who are authorities in the field with more than 200 papers (85% in Q1 and 80% D1), 5 international patents, and several companies. The supervision in UCAM-SENS is a bi-directional process based on motivation, engagement, learning and discovering, respect, promoting the formulation of new scientific research questions, and assisting in developing/improving interpersonal skills.