Master's Thesis: Surface Modification of Membranes for Cell-Based Alzheimer's Therapy

Be part of change

This Master’s thesis addresses the question of how phagocytic cells (e.g., microglia) can be utilized for innovative therapeutic approaches to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Microglia possess highly developed defense and clearance mechanisms, enabling them to identify and remove damaged structures, degradation products, and other unwanted particles. They play a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease.

The aim is to culture these “cleansing” cells on specialized membranes in order to improve extracorporeal blood purification processes in the future. For this purpose, polymer membranes (e.g., polysulfone and cellulose) will be specifically surface-modified using plasma technology and biomaterial-based coatings. The modified surfaces are intended to optimize cell adhesion and function, creating ideal conditions for the cultivation of microglial cells. In this way, the project contributes to the development of cell-based therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.

Within the scope of the thesis project, the following steps are planned:

• Literature research and selection of suitable surface modification approaches using various physical plasma techniques and process parameters
• Implementation of surface modification on PES membranes
• Characterization of surface-modified membranes (e.g., contact angle measurements, IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) at IBMT (University Medicine Rostock)
• Seeding of membranes with cells and establishment of cell cultures at Fraunhofer IZI (Department EXTHER)
• Analysis of cell viability and colonization success, as well as investigation of cell functionality (e.g., resazurin assay, fluorescence microscopy, ELISA, scanning electron microscopy)
• Evaluation, interpretation, and documentation of results

What you contribute

• A completed Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in life sciences (e.g., biochemistry, biology, biotechnology, biomaterials, or a related field) and current enrollment in a Master’s program
• Practical experience with basic laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, sterile work for cell culture); experience in a biological or chemical laboratory environment is desirable
• Knowledge of data analysis and processing using common software tools
• You enjoy learning new practical skills, approach unfamiliar topics with curiosity and structure, and quickly grasp them through analytical thinking.

What we offer

• A unique combination of creative research freedom and real-world impact, including societal relevance. Your work contributes to shaping the medicine of tomorrow while providing insights into Europe’s leading organization for applied research.
• You will be part of an international and interdisciplinary team, have access to state-of-the-art technology for biological and biochemical analyses, and benefit from a high degree of autonomy.
• You will gain valuable practical experience and prepare optimally for future positions by learning numerous relevant scientific methods and further developing your ability to independently plan and conduct experiments.
• During your time at Fraunhofer IZI, you will receive expert supervision at eye level.

The duration of the project is flexible and depends on your university’s requirements and your preferred schedule. Please note: We are unable to offer remuneration for thesis projects; however, you can expect an exciting research topic and intensive academic supervision.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities. 

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Do you have questions about the position or the application process? We are here for you:

Lea-Sophie Fingerhut
Strategic HR Development & Recruiting
Email: bewerbung@izi.fraunhofer.de
Phone: +49 341 35536-9224

Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI 

www.izi.fraunhofer.de 

Requisition Number: 84056                Application Deadline: