🔬 Fully Funded PhD in France 2025 - Structural Characterization of RNA Lipid Nanoparticles for Therapeutic Applications

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.

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🧪 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
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