A PhD position within formulation characterization focused on suspensions for injection is available at the Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Pharmacy in the pharmacy research group. The PhD project is conducted in cooperation with colleagues from the University of Copenhagen.

Starting date: 1 September, 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Application deadline: 1 August, 2022.

Project background
Disperse system are two immiscible components mixed into one by the use of a stabilizer, with emulsions and suspensions being the classic examples. Disperse systems have found their use in practically all industries ranging from food over paint to pharmaceuticals. Despite their wide use, the full potential of disperse systems remains to be fulfilled as we have little to no understanding of the elementary constrains of these thermodynamically unfavourable mixtures.

The stability of emulsions and suspensions is continuously challenged by a multitude of destabilizing phenomena, comprising sedimentation, Ostwald ripening, secondary nucleation, droplet fusion and aggregation. The current theoretical framework to define their stability relies on the DLVO theory for aggregation of aqueous dispersions from 1941 which is known to have a number of shortcomings. As basic research has been sparse in the field for many years, working with these systems relies on empirical observations.

The project will work to obtain better insights into the chemical understanding of pharmaceutical suspension stability, i.e. from a stressed stability perspective and from an energy input perspective. The work could start by generating experimental data for several suspensions made with a handful of organic compounds with different stabilizers. The suspensions that generate most variations will be characterized deeper to understand the chemical drivers behind these differences, e.g. by application of SAXS to the different suspensions.

Qualifications
We are looking for a candidate with a strong interest in working on the boundary between pharmacy, chemistry and physics focused on characterization of suspensions. The candidate will hold an MSc in pharmacy, chemistry, physics, or a closely related area. Previous experiences with one or more of the following is considered an advantage: formulation design of suspensions, manufacturing of suspensions, particle size characterization, and SAXS.

The candidate must be independent and fluent in both oral and written English.

For further information about the position please contact Professor René Holm ([email protected]).

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is one of four departments at the Faculty of Science, SDU and is located in Odense. The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is a department focused on basic research. We are happy to move beyond traditional disciplines and work to develop new technologies and sciences across physics, chemistry, pharmacy, mathematics, computer science and biology. The department’s research thus contributes to new knowledge and solutions with applications in the areas of climate, environment, energy, and health.

Application, salary etc.
Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period. The holder of the scholarship is not allowed to have other paid employment during the three-year period.

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement on salaried PhD scholars between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary and taxation.

The successful candidate will be enrolled at this university in accordance with faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order).

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Application must be made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:
• A research proposal/description of your approach to the above project (max one page excluding references)
• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages) (please attach this under box "Application form")
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information
• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades
• At least two signed reference letters. Should your referees wish to send their letters directly to us, please have them use e-mail: [email protected] mentioning your name and the title of the position in the subject line. And please note that these also need to reach us before deadline.

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

Further information about the PhD-study can be found at the homepage of the University.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply online". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF or Word format. Each box can only contain a single file of max. 10 Mb. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply before you apply.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.