Last date to apply: 30.03.2026 Number of Positions: 01 The doctoral candidate will work on the DFG project “Analysis of micro- and nanoplastics and synthetically produced nanoparticles in the human placenta / MiNaPla”. The aim of the project is to develop and establish valid analytical methods for the detection, quantification and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics in the human placenta and blood. The position is available within the Raman & SEM Group, Chair of Analytical Chemistry and Water Chemistry, Institute of Water Chemistry (IWC), TUM School of Natural Sciences (Department of Chemistry), Technical University of Munich (TUM). The group focuses on the development and establishment of Raman-based methods for the analysis of complex samples, with a particular emphasis on automation and online/high-throughput analysis. The research topic: Microplastics and nanoplastics are emerging anthropogenic particulate pollutants. These tiny plastic particles and fibers are found in the air, drinking water, and food – raising concerns about their impact on human health. However, little is known about the translocation and accumulation of small microplastics and nanoplastics, as well as artificially produced metal-based nanoparticles, in the human placenta. The doctoral candidate will work on the DFG-funded project “Analysis of Micro- and Nanoplastics and Synthetically Produced Nanoparticles in the Human Placenta / MiNaPla” in cooperation with the University of Ulm (Institute of Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry and University Hospital Ulm). The project aims to develop and establish valid analytical methods for the detection, quantification, and characterization of micro- and nanoplastics as well as synthetically produced metal-based nanoparticles in the human placenta and blood at low analyte concentrations, as expected in real-world samples. Furthermore, particular attention will be paid to the coexistence of microplastics and metals in order to assess the occurrence of the Trojan horse phenomenon. We invite you to apply for a PhD position and offer: • Supervision, mentoring, and support from PD Dr. Natalia P. Ivleva • Extensive qualification and training programs, structured education at the TUM Graduate School, active participation in European and international conferences • Work in a dynamic, stimulating, supportive, and interdisciplinary environment focusing on the development of Raman-based methods for the analysis of various analytes • State-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including Raman microspectroscopy, (cryo-)SEM/EDX, field-flow fractionation (FFF), and (sp)-ICP-MS equipment • 3-year PhD position in the Raman & SEM group, IWC-TUM • Opportunities for scientific collaboration with German and international partners who develop and manufacture analytical instruments for particle characterization. What will make you successful: • Master’s degree in (analytical) chemistry, biochemistry, or a comparable field • High motivation and ability to work independently, systematically, and reliably in scientific research • Extensive experience in chemical, analytical, and spectroscopic laboratories, ability to work in a clean environment, and experience with trace analyses • Good knowledge of programming (preferably Python) and chemometrics, experience in method automation and spectroscopic data evaluation • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English, as well as social competence; knowledge of German is a plus • Expertise in micro- and nanoplastic analysis, sample preparation, and physicochemical characterization of particles will be a significant advantage. Application procedure: Please send a single PDF file (in English) containing a cover letter, a CV including your university grades, contact details of two references, a summary of your Master’s thesis (maximum one page), a research vision (maximum one page), and, if available, copies of your publications. How to apply: Please send a single PDF file including a letter of motivation, a CV with university grades, the contact details of two referees, a summary of your Master’s thesis (one page max.), a research vision (one page max.), and, if available, copies of research papers. Applications should be sent to natalia.ivleva@tum.de. Application deadline: January 31, 2026. https://www.ch.nat.tum.de/hydrochemistry/raman-sem/open-positions/ As part of the Excellence Initiative of the German Federal and State Governments, TUM pursues the strategic goal of significantly increasing diversity. TUM is an equal opportunity employer. TUM aims to increase the proportion of women in its workforce and therefore particularly welcomes applications from women. The position is suitable for disabled persons. Disabled applicants will be given preference in case of generally equivalent suitability, aptitude and professional performance. Data Protection Information: When you apply for a position at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), you are submitting personal information. With regard to this personal information, please note the data protection information pursuant to Article 13 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) concerning the collection and processing of personal data in connection with your application. By submitting your application, you confirm that you have acknowledged the above data protection information of TUM. Contact: natalia.ivleva@tum.de
