We are seeking a candidate with a strong background in polymer synthesis, nanoparticle research, and biomaterials. The selected candidate will be a part of the BBCE Pre-clinical Biomaterial Evaluation Group located at the National Institute of Research and Innovation and will contribute to our ongoing projects, specifically on development of nanoparticles with predictable interactions with biomolecules and understanding nanoparticles behaviour in biologically relevant environments, with particular focus on cancer therapy and diagnostics. Responsibilities will include 1) synthesis and characterization of small organic molecules 2) synthesis of polymers via controlled radical polymerization techniques; 2) development and optimization of protocols for the preparation of nanoparticles; 3) evaluation of the unique properties and functionalities of the developed biomaterials. This position offers a unique and exciting opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research in a highly collaborative environment that crosses multiple fields between chemistry, material science, pharmacology and medicine. The position also comes with sponsored trainings to develop new skills and includes training visits to AO Research Institute Davos (Swizerland) and Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (Germany).
Benefits
- Basic salary EUR 52 000,- p.a. before tax
- Health insurance
- Dedicated funding for training and mobility
Eligibility
We are searching for the candidate with:
- PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Bioengineering, or a related field
- Proficiency in organic synthesis, polymer synthesis and characterization techniques
- Knowledge of physicochemical characterization of nanoparticles and materials
- Established scientific record in organic synthesis/polymer synthesis/nanoparticles/biomaterials
- Additional experience related to polymer synthesis, nanoparticle research and biomaterials is a plus
Application documents
Applications must be in English and include:
- Motivation letter (up to 1 A4 page) outlining the expertise in polymer chemistry and biomaterials, if available highlighting the experience in polymer synthesis and nanoparticle preparation and characterization;
- CV in English (Europass format), providing the data on work experience, education, publications, h-index, projects (indicating the role of the applicant in the project), honours and awards;
- Copy of PhD diploma or equivalent;
- Contacts of two references that can provide a recommendation upon request.
All documents must be submitted to bbcentre@rtu.lv before September 25, 2026. 5.00 PM (CET)
Recruitment process
For additional information, please contact bbcentre@rtu.lv and visit https://bbcentre.eu and https://www.niri.lv/en.
The selection procedure will be based on two steps. The first step will consist of the screening of all applications received and the selection of a shortlist of candidates based on CV, motivation, and relevance with the specific research project. The second step will consist of an interview (held in person or online via Skype/Zoom). Prior to recruitment, the successful applicant will be requested to produce the original copies of all certificates and documents declared. Incorrect documents or lack thereof may invalidate the application.
When applying for a competition, the candidate agrees to the processing of his personal data pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data and repealing Directive 95/95 / EC / 46 / EC (General Data Protection Regulation) and for storage at the Riga Technical University Personnel Department. Without the consent of the candidate, personal data will not be transferred to third parties, except in the cases specified in the laws and regulations in force in the Republic of Latvia.