The Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques (iba) is a non-university research institute of the Free State of Thuringia and an affiliated institute of the TU Ilmenau. As part of the research profile "Biotechniques at Interfaces", topics of application-oriented research for the development of technical systems for the life sciences are dealt with. The central research focus is on the engineering of molecular and cellular processes for disease modeling and therapeutic approaches for patient-specific medicine. The investigation, modification and application of interfaces and interface effects aims at the optimization of high-throughput methods as well as other processes, systems and products for medicine, biotechnology and related areas.
The junior research group Nano-Thrombo-Interfaces (Nano-TI) at the Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques (iba) is looking for a Master student. Celastrus hindsii, a plant native to Vietnam, China and Southeast Asia, has long been used traditionally for its medicinal properties and insecticidal qualities for therapeutic purposes. Various bioactive compounds have been discovered in Celastrus hindsii, including flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, triterpenes, alkaloids. The extract from this plant shows diverse biological activities including anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-tumor effects. However, the clinical application of this bioactive compound is often hindered by challenges related to poor solubility, low bioavailability and limited stability.
To develop and optimize drug delivery systems, PEG chains are attached to therapeutic molecules, resulting in improved drug stability, solubility and pharmacokinetics. By forming a protective shield around the drug molecule, PEGylation reduces immunogenicity, protects against enzymatic degradation and prolongs circulation times in the body. However, to date, the impact of this PEG-drug on cancer cells remains unclear.
The aim of the master's thesis is to identify cancer cells in which the PEGylated extract from Celastrus hindsii has antitumor effects.
Your tasks
Literature search and experimental plan
Culture cancer cells in addition of drugs of different concentrations
Determine cell live/death using ELISA, confocal microscopy, and other methodologies
Data analysis and data management
We expect:
Students with a background in chemistry, molecular biology, biophysical chemistry, or biotechnology
Knowledge of protein and cell analysis
Reliable, careful, and responsible personality
Experienced handling of MS Office applications (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Good communication skills in German and English (spoken and written, at least B2); Knowledge of Vietnamese is an advantage.
We offer a varied, promising and self-responsible field of activity in an interdisciplinary and internationally networked research institute. You will find an open and collegial research landscape with a wide range of professional and personal development opportunities. You can rely on a highly motivated team of scientists from various disciplines.
The iba guarantees professional equality and supports the compatibility of family and career, including with flexible working hours within the scope of official possibilities.
The position is remunerated according to TV-L. If they are equally qualified and meet the above requirements, applicants with a recognized disability in accordance with Section 2 of the Social Code Book IX will be given priority.