MSCA PhD positions in molecular design of functional polymers for sustainable agriculture

The PhD projects will focus on the development of functional and biodegradable polymers designed to interact with biological systems and enable more sustainable technologies for agriculture.

The research activities will have a strong focus on experimental organic and polymer chemistry, combining monomer design and synthesis, controlled polymerization, macromolecular engineering and advanced polymer characterization. Depending on the specific project, you will develop either biodegradable functional polymers for the stabilization of beneficial microorganisms or water-soluble polymers with precisely controlled architectures for the complexation and delivery of biological molecules in plants.

PhD 1 - Biodegradable functional polymers - Design of monomers and synthetic strategies towards functional, biodegradable poly(meth)acrylates, with emphasis on controlling polymer functionality and degradation while promoting the stabilization and survival of beneficial microorganisms.

PhD 2 - Polymeric carriers for biological delivery - Design and synthesis of water-soluble polymers with controlled molecular architectures, including bottlebrush polymers, to investigate how macromolecular structure and functionality can be engineered for the complexation, transport and delivery of nucleic acids in plants.

The MOC Lab at the University of Padova is recruiting two PhD candidates within AGRIPOLYS - Molecularly Designed Polymers for Sustainable Agriculture, a newly funded Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN) bringing together leading European universities and industrial partners in polymer science, environmental science, plant biology and agricultural technologies.

Our group develops advanced functional polymeric materials through the molecular design of monomers and macromolecules and the precise control of polymer composition, functionality and architecture.

The University of Padova, founded in 1222, is one of Europe’s oldest universities and a major international research institution. The Department of Chemical Sciences provides a highly interdisciplinary research environment and extensive facilities for synthetic and materials chemistry. Padova combines a vibrant university atmosphere with an excellent quality of life and is strategically located close to Venice and within easy reach of many destinations in northern Italy and central Europe.

The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about experimental research and has a strong interest in polymer chemistry, macromolecular synthesis and materials science. Candidates should hold, or expect to obtain, a Master's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.

Previous experience in organic synthesis, monomer synthesis, polymer synthesis, controlled polymerization and/or polymer characterization is highly desirable. Experience with all of these areas is not required: we particularly value a solid chemical background, curiosity, creativity, motivation for hands-on laboratory research and a genuine interest in learning modern polymer synthesis.

Candidates should enjoy working in a collaborative and international environment and have good communication skills and an excellent command of English.