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This project focuses on the development and optimization of polymer-based excipients for bacteriophage stabilization, addressing a critical challenge in the storage, transport, and application of phages in medicine, biotechnology, and industry. Bacteriophages have significant potential as alternative antimicrobial agents, particularly in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. However, their widespread use is hindered by poor stability under environmental stressors, including temperature fluctuations, desiccation, and long-term storage conditions. The proposed research aims to overcome these limitations by designing and characterizing novel polymeric formulations that enhance phage stability, ensuring their viability and efficacy across various applications. The project takes an interdisciplinary approach, combining high-throughput polymer synthesis, advanced biophysical characterization, and structural analysis. The Polish team at the Institute of Physical Chemistry PAS brings expertise in colloidal stability, self-assembly, and bacteriophage research. The project will establish structure-property-function relationships, guiding the development of optimized polymeric stabilizers tailored to different phage types and storage conditions. Beyond bacteriophages, the research will extend to virus-like particles (VLPs) and protein systems, broadening the impact on vaccine formulation and biopharmaceutical stabilization. By investigating polymer-mediated stabilization in both phages and VLPs, this project will generate insights applicable to a range of biological formulations, contributing to the advancement of nanomedicine, vaccine technology, and bioengineering. The project will not only advance fundamental knowledge in virology, polymer science, and biophysics but also provide practical solutions for enhancing phage therapy, vaccine development, and other biopharmaceutical applications. The findings will lay the groundwork for future translational research and potential industrial applications, making a significant contribution to both scientific innovation and public health advancements.

Postdoc will be involved in experimental studies on the stabilization of bacteriophages, virus-like particles, and proteins under various stress conditions. Post-doc will also contribute to the structural and stability assessment of phage–polymer systems using biophysical techniques and will participate in data analysis and interpretation.

Responsibilities:

• Designing, planning, and carrying out experimental work independently, maintaining regular research notes.
• Scientific initiative and contribution through regular reporting and publishing, as well as presenting at group meetings, national and international conferences;
• Providing help and supervision to junior members of the group;
• Contribution to the efficient functioning of the lab.
• Experience in working with bacteriophages, proteins, or virus-like particles, including hands-on experience with microbiological and/or biochemical laboratory techniques, will be beneficial.

We offer a post-doctoral position (full-time employment) in the Institute of Physical Chemistry PAS with a gross salary of Around 9650 PLN gross per month financed from the NCN https://www.ncn.gov.pl/sites/default/files/pliki/uchwalyrady/2024/uchwala115_2024-zal2_ang.pdf 100% of the work time of Postdoc will be devoted to the realization of the proposed project. The offer is for 12 months with possible extensions based on the performance.

The successful candidate will benefit in the form of new knowledge and methods added to his/her toolbox. The project deals with biotechnology, nanotechnology, physics, material sciences, and physical chemistry, so a broad range of candidates will find new knowledge to be gained upon the realization of the project. We plan to publish the results of the work in high-impact factor journals. The successful candidate will be eligible for all programs at the IPC PAS, including the IPC PAS Young Scientists competition and the IPC PAS Young Scientists Mobility competition. Institute provides an opportunity to participate in ERASMUS+ programme.

1. PhD degree in biology, biotechnology, chemical sciences obtained no earlier than 12 years before the starting year of employment in the project (this period might be longer in the case of women due to family reasons (according to NCN rules https://www.ncn.gov.pl/sites/default/files/pliki/uchwalyrady/2024/uchwala115_2024-zal2_ang.pdf).

2. Publication record and rich scientific experience.

3. Ability to work independently as well as in a group.

4. Knowledge of the synthesis and characterization of nanostructures and polymers.

5. Ability to communicate fluently in English (written and spoken).

6. Strong motivation to work and pursue scientific questions, creativity, and analytical thinking.

7. Research experience in related fields will be advantageous

The Commission will take into account the following criteria: The Commission evaluates applications on a percentage scale: a) competencies of candidates for specific tasks in the research project (0–60%), b) previous scientific achievements of candidates (0–30%), c) awards and distinctions received by the candidate as a result of conducted research (0–10%).