By scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com 
The Structural Characterization of RNA Lipid Nanoparticles for Therapeutic Applications is an exciting, fully funded PhD position now open at the University of Strasbourg, France, with a start date of September 1, 2025. Funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR), this project offers a unique opportunity to work at the cutting edge of nanotechnology, bioimaging, and mRNA therapeutics, with world-class supervision and access to state-of-the-art microscopy platforms.
This doctoral opportunity is perfect for highly motivated students from around the world with backgrounds in biophysics, biotechnology, or microscopy. Read on to explore eligibility, research scope, benefits, and how to apply for this prestigious program.
🧪 Project Overview – What You Will Study
The project focuses on the structural analysis of mRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) using advanced fluorescence techniques. LNPs gained worldwide recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic as carriers for mRNA vaccines. Their potential, however, goes far beyond vaccines—they’re becoming foundational tools for treating a range of diseases including cancer and genetic disorders.
Despite their growing importance, the internal architecture of LNPs remains poorly understood. This project aims to close that gap by characterizing:
- LNP morphology
- RNA encapsulation dynamics
- Internal structural heterogeneity
- Cellular behavior and fate
Using innovative techniques such as spectroscopy, single-particle microscopy (sPAINT), and fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM), the student will dissect the nano-structure of LNPs and study their behavior inside living cells.
This is not just a research project—it’s a technological innovation pipeline poised to revolutionize how RNA therapies are designed and delivered.
🔬 Techniques and Tools You’ll Master
This PhD will give you hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, including:
- Fluorescence Spectroscopy
- Super-resolution microscopy (sPAINT, SMLM)
- Time-resolved microscopy (FLIM)
- Correlative Fluorescence Spectroscopy (FCS)
- Single-molecule analysis
- Custom fluorescent probes (e.g., Nile Red, 3HC dyes)
You’ll also collaborate with two partner labs at University of Lyon, leveraging complementary tools such as NMR spectroscopy and electron microscopy to validate your findings.
📚 What You’ll Learn
Over the course of this doctoral project, you’ll develop expert-level competencies in:
- Biophysics and lipid nanoparticle analysis
- Microscopy and spectral imaging
- Cell biology and intracellular trafficking
- Instrumental development
- Data analysis and image processing
- Cross-disciplinary teamwork at the physics–biology–chemistry interface
You’ll be co-supervised by Prof. Yves Mély and Dr. Ludovic Richert, and based in the Bioimaging and Pathologies Laboratory (UMR 7021), known for pioneering work in biophotonics and single-molecule microscopy.
🔗 Lab website: https://lbp.unistra.fr
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Structural Characterization of RNA Lipid Nanoparticles PhD, you should:
✅ Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biophysics, physical chemistry, biotechnology, or related fields
✅ Have experience or strong interest in optical imaging, spectroscopy, or nanoparticle systems
✅ Demonstrate motivation for interdisciplinary research and teamwork
✅ Be willing to work in English or French in a multicultural environment
✅ Possess or be willing to develop skills in fluorescence microscopy and data analysis
Prior exposure to instrumentation or programming (e.g., Python, ImageJ, MATLAB) is a plus.
💰 Funding and Benefits
This PhD is 100% funded by ANR LNP@HiRes, offering:
- 📅 Duration: 3 years (Sept 1, 2025 – Aug 30, 2028)
- 💼 Employment status: Doctoral contract (public law)
- 💶 Monthly salary: Competitive with French national PhD rates
- 🧪 Full access to CNRS and university microscopy platforms and research facilities
- 🌍 Collaborative network with Lyon-based research groups
- 🧑🔬 Technical training + professional development support
- 🏥 Social security and healthcare coverage in France
This scholarship fully covers living and research expenses during the doctoral study period.
📍 Location: University of Strasbourg, France
Situated in the heart of Europe, Strasbourg offers an ideal research and living environment. With its rich scientific history, vibrant international community, and state-of-the-art research centers, it’s a hub for biomedical innovation and cross-border collaboration.
📝 How to Apply
📌 Application Deadline: Rolling until filled
📅 Start Date: September 1, 2025
🔗 Apply now: https://amethis3.unistra.fr/amethis-client/prd/candidater/250
🧾 Required Documents:
- CV
- Motivation Letter
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Recommendation letters (preferred)
- Any previous research work or publications
📄 More project info: Project Details Page
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📌 Why You Should Apply
- Work with internationally recognized experts in RNA nanotechnology
- Develop groundbreaking tools for mRNA vaccine and therapy design
- Receive hands-on training in advanced imaging and spectroscopy
- Join a fully funded doctoral program with global research relevance
- Contribute to health innovation with real-world impact
This project builds on the momentum of mRNA-LNP vaccines post-COVID and prepares you for a career at the intersection of biophysics, nanomedicine, and pharmaceutical research.
💬 Need Help Applying?
If you need assistance with your:
- ✍️ Motivation Letter
- 📑 CV or academic documents
- 📚 Research proposal guidance
- 🖥️ Application form filling
📧 Contact: scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com
We offer full support to make your application stand out!
🔗 Internal & External Links
- ✅ Official Apply Page: Apply Now
- ✅ Project Description: More Details
- 🔗 Scholarships with Aakash – Explore more PhD and scholarship opportunities
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