Research Assistant (PhD) position (m/f/d) in the field of polymer coatings for highly conformable neural implants

The Soft Sensorics & Biohybrid Systems group within the research center BrainLinks-BrainTools of the University of Freiburg offers a Research Assistant (PhD) position (m/f/d) in the field of polymer coatings for highly conformable neural implants

• Application deadline: 31. January 2026
• Publication date: 23. December 2025
• Start-date: At the earliest possible date.
• Scope of work: Part-time position (75 %)
• Id no.: 00004769

Description

The Soft Sensorics & Biohybrid Systems group within the research center BrainLinks-BrainTools of the University of Freiburg offers a research assistant position for the coating of highly conformable neural implants with ultrathin polymer layers as well as their mechanical, electrical and biocompatibility testing. The position can be started at March 1st 2026 or at the earliest convenience.

 

Who We Are

The research center BrainLinks-BrainTools at the University of Freiburg unites life sciences, engineering, and clinical applications in Freiburg, thus anchoring neurotechnology as a research axis between three faculties of the University and various cooperation partners. These emerging opportunities for strong joint research and education between neuroscience, natural sciences and engineering deliver novel interdisciplinary results in an area highly relevant for society as a whole. The scientific goal of BrainLinks-BrainTools is to reach a new level in the interaction between technical systems and the brain, allowing them to directly communicate with each other. This requires the development of flexible yet stable, and adaptive yet robust applications of brain-machine interface technology.

The Soft Sensorics & Biohybrid Systems Group within the research center BrainLinks-BrainTools is developing neural implants as a bioelectronic interface between brain and machine (‘brain-machine interface’). A current research focus is on neural implants with biohybrid electrodes as well as highly conformable silicon-based neural implants (NeuralaceTM). Such approaches target enhanced biocompatibility of neural implants, thus improving their long-term stability as well as recordings with increased spatial resolution, which is crucial for complex applications and new insights into brain functioning.

 

Your Tasks

• Testing of various coating processes (e.g., transfer coating, dip coating) for the synthesis of thin hydrogel-based polymer layers onto the novel neural implant NeuralaceTM
• Measurements on coated Neuralace implant structures, including in particular the investigation of mechanical properties (e.g., bend testing, adhesion tests) and electrical properties (e.g., impedance spectroscopy)
• Implant testing on organotypic brain slices and subsequent immunohistological examination
• Presentation of research results at international conferences and through publications in scientific journals.
• This project involves work in close collaboration with the University of Utah and the companies Blackrock Neurotech Inc. & Sentiomed Inc. A professional demeanor, reliable completion of milestones, and regular reporting are therefore particularly important.

 

Requirements

• A master’s or equivalent degree in Chemistry, Materials Sciences, or a related field
• Vast experience in polymer synthesis and surface modification (such as silanization)
• Experience in various thin layer characterization and surface analysis techniques (XPS, FIB-SEM, FTIR ...) as well as mechanical/electrical testing
• A strong interest in interdisciplinary research as well as a creative, proactive, and team-oriented mindset
• High proficiency in English, both written and spoken

 

What We Offer

We offer you the opportunity to engage in highly interdisciplinary research in the exciting field of life science technologies. At our IMBIT research building, you will work in a modern office and laboratory environment that houses a wide range of different disciplines. Access to state-of-the-art technology and testing equipment is provided. A graduate programme offers you continuing education opportunities, networking with other doctoral students, and more. The position is limited to three years (75% FTE) and intended for the completion of a PhD.

 

Please note that your application must include the following documents in order to be processed:

1. Cover letter expressing your motivation
2. Curriculum vitae (CV)
3. Complete transcripts & grade reports (school education, bachelor's degree/preliminary diploma, master's degree/diploma)
4. Additional certificates (e.g., certificates of good conduct or proof of internships completed)
5. Two references with whom you have worked and who can provide a reliable assessment of your work ethic.

The position is limited to 28. February 2029. The salary will be determined in accordance with TVL E13.

We will be particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position advertised here.

Application

Please send your application in English including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00004769, by 31. January 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

University of Freiburg
IMBIT // BrainLinks-BrainTools
Dr.-Ing. Simon Binder
Georges-Koehler-Allee 201
79110 Freiburg
Germany

For further information, please contact Dr.-Ing. Simon Binder on the phone number +49 761 +49 761 203 73780 or E-Mail simon.binder@brainlinks-braintools.uni-freiburg.de.