Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Drugs and Biomaterials ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Miroslav Vetrík, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The present dissertation deals with the synthesis, characterization, and in vitro testing of self-ordered molecules forming nanoparticles (micelles/liposomes) with a hydrophobic core and hydrophilic parts of the molecule. The hydrophilic part of the molecule will be functionalized with functional groups affecting the surface charge of the nanoparticle and functional groups actively targeting e.g., tumors. The core of the nanoparticle will contain therapeutic drugs which will be delivered directly into the intracellular compartments. In this work, the low molecular weight agents prepared in this way with different functionalities on the hydrophilic part of the chains will be combined to achieve the best therapeutic effect. The scope of the thesis will be organic synthesis, and physicochemical characterization. The thesis involves the use of animal/human cell lines in performing basic in vitro techniques with which the student will be familiar.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Dana Kubies, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Antibacterial surfaces are increasingly important for reducing microbial contamination and infection risks in healthcare, food processing, and related industries. With the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance and persistent surface contamination, there is a strong demand for durable, biocompatible, and environmentally safe antibacterial coatings. Current technologies include passive surfaces that prevent adhesion and active surfaces that kill microbes on contact, though achieving long-lasting, biocompatible, and environmentally safe performance remains a challenge. This PhD project focuses on the development of advanced polycation-based polyelectrolyte antibacterial surfaces using the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly technique, which enables precise control over film thickness, composition, and functionality. The project will investigate various types of positive charges in polycation layers and their influence on film structure, stability, and antibacterial performance. In addition, the integration of biologically active agents such as enzymes and antimicrobial peptides into LbL films will be explore to create the coatings with long-term, synergistic anti-adhesive and active antibacterial functionality.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Ivan Kelnar, CSc.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The fundamental challenge is physical realization of low-density 3D auxetic metamaterials with unique architecture and programmed deformation behavior. The research on hierarchical auxetics is in its infancy, it predominantly consists in prediction of their performance using sophisticated modeling and preparation of some macroscopic model structures. In spite of their very limited occurrence in natural materials, the several known examples confirm their advantages. In the systems considered, local mechano-mutability by spatially arranging multi-material unit cells should lead to substantial affecting of spatial profile of Poisson’s ratio, moduli of elasticity, toughness, control of acoustic damping, etc. Important tool will be targeted synthesis of auxetic unit cells and related functional nanocomposites based on both natural and synthetic constituents also including 3D printing techniques.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Dana Kubies, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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In biomedical applications, the release of growth factors (proteins) promoting vascularization from biomaterial surfaces is a key factor that supports the integration of biomaterials with the recipient tissue. An effective technique for the preparation of ultrathin coatings is the layer-by-layer technique ("LbL"), which is mainly used in engineering applications. The project aims to develop bioactive LbL films consisting of “charge-shifting” polycations based on poly(dimethylaminoethyl acrylate) (PDMAEA) and the polyanion heparin, which will release the growth factors VEGF and FGF-2 that stimulate vascular cell growth. The gradual change in charge on the PDMAEA polymer will allow tuned decomposition of LbL films and thus controlled release of immobilized growth factors. Doctoral studies will include: 1. Study of the synthesis of PDMAEA and its statistic copolymers by RAFT polymerization, with the aim to obtain polycations with different charge content and hydrolytic stability. 2. Study of the dynamics of film formation and characterization of physicochemical and morphological film properties using advanced instrumental techniques such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), quartz crystal microbalance (QCM-D), AFM, or CLSM. 3. Preparation of real LbL films using an automated coater for layer deposition and study of in vitro protein release as a function of composition and stability of LbL films. 4. Evaluation of the cytocompatibility of LbL films and the bioactivity of released proteins in collaboration with biologists. The interdisciplinary topic focuses on polymer chemistry and biomedical applications and is suitable for graduates of chemical disciplines, such as macromolecular chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, etc.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	RNDr. Miroslav Šlouf, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Biodegradable polymer systems show numerous technical and biomedical applications. Our team has long-term experience with a reproducible preparation of thermoplastic starch (TPS). TPS is cheap, biocompatible and completely biodegradable polymer. In this project, we aim at the development of TPS/PCL/MD/SiO2/Ag systems, where PCL = polycaprolactone (another biopolymer, added for better mechanical performance), MD = maltodextrin (bio-oligomer, acting as a lubricant that decreases processing temperature), SiO2 = silica nanoparticles (inorganic filler for higher stiffness and barrier properties), and Ag = silver nanoparticles (antibacterial properties). The multicomponent TPS/PCL/MD/SiO2/Ag systems could serve as a bio-material with tunable properties for numerous applications (such as antimicrobial packaging or mulching technology). The project comprises preparation of the above systems (by melt mixing), optimization of their composition and morphology (targeted modification of preparation protocols), characterization of their morphology (electron microscopy, vibrational spectroscopy, XRD), and properties (macro- and micromechanical properties), and participation in biodegradability testing (in collaboration with the University of Zagreb, Croatia).

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Tomáš Riedel, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The long-term success of vascular implants, particularly coronary and neurovascular stents, critically depends on rapid restoration of a functional endothelial layer on their surface. Insufficient or delayed endothelialization substantially increases the risk of thrombosis, inflammation, and restenosis, representing one of the primary clinical challenges associated with current endovascular interventions. The aim of this PhD thesis is to develop a new generation of bioactive, hemocompatible coatings that mimic natural vascular healing processes and provide a unique combination of low thrombogenicity, anti-inflammatory properties, and active stimulation of endothelial growth. The research will focus on fibrin coatings produced through controlled polymerization directly on implant surfaces, which will be subsequently functionalized with sulfated glycosaminoglycans (e.g., heparin, fucoidan, hyaluronic acid) and synthetic peptides promoting wound healing. Fibrin serves as a biomimetic matrix capable of binding, stabilizing, and presenting bioactive molecules in a form similar to that found in the early phases of vascular wound healing. The PhD candidate will optimize fibrin polymerization parameters, tune coating morphology and thickness, and introduce bioactive motifs via specific covalent conjugation strategies, including modern bio-orthogonal click chemistries. The work will involve comprehensive structural and chemical characterization using AFM, SEM, confocal microscopy, FTIR-ATR, and SPR. Coatings will be evaluated using hemocompatibility assays (coagulation activation, platelet and complement activation), anti-inflammatory assessments (macrophage adhesion, M1/M2 polarization, cytokine release), and detailed endothelialization studies. These will include static and dynamic endothelial cell seeding, migration assays, proliferation analyses, and characterization of endothelial markers such as CD31, VE-cadherin, vWF, and eNOS. The expected outcome of the PhD thesis is a fully characterized multifunctional coating that accelerates endothelial regeneration while suppressing thrombosis and inflammation, thereby addressing key limitations of current vascular implant technologies. The candidate will obtain extensive expertise across macromolecular chemistry, surface biofunctionalization, materials characterization, cell–material interactions, hemocompatibility, and advanced microscopy, providing a strong foundation for future research or industrial careers in biomaterials and regenerative medicine.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Václav Hoffmann Pokorný, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Combined Thermodynamic and Structural Study of Polymer Systems Utilizing In-Situ VT-XRD.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Hynek Beneš, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The increasing production of greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) by human activities reached in 2021 more than 36 Gt and thus CO2 is generally considered as the biggest waste contributed to climate change. Current research is trying to address this challenge by capturing CO2 and using it as sustainable feedstock for polymer synthesis. The aim of this work is to investigate the possibilities of converting CO2 into polymer materials. The first route will be the CO2-oxirane (epoxy) coupling reaction, which leads to production of various cyclic carbonates, which are monomers for innovative polymer materials, e.g. non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs) and epoxides. The second approach will be the direct CO2 transformation into polycarbonates (PC). The third way will involve the ring-opening copolymerization of epoxide with CO2 leading to linear carbonate-ether copolymers. All the above-mentioned strategies will preferable utilize bio-based monomers to obtain fully renewable polymer materials. The important part of this PhD topic will be finding a suitable catalytic system for each synthetic path. Our preliminary experiments showed the successful CO2-epoxy cycloaddition in the presence imidazolium and metal-based ionic liquids (ILs). Due to ILs’ countless possible anion/cation combinations and their exceptional set of properties (low vapor pressure, negligible flammability, high thermal and chemical stability), they can seem to be suitable candidates to catalyze the cycloaddition reaction of epoxide and CO2 with tunable selectivity towards linear / cyclic carbonate and ether formation. As part of the doctoral project, a student's several-month internship at foreign collaborating workplace (INSA Lyon, France) is assumed. The candidates should have good communication skills in English (both in speaking and writing), should be able to work both in a team and independently. Active participation on foreign internships, trainings and scientific conferences is expected.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	RNDr. Ivana Šeděnková, PhD.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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This PhD project focuses on studying one-pot–modified gold nanoparticles designed for advanced biomedical imaging. The goal is to characterize their plasmonic and surface properties and evaluate their suitability for near-infrared photoacoustic imaging and complementary SERS imaging that provides molecularly specific information. The project involves multimodal analysis of the prepared Au nanoparticles (photoacoustics, IR, Raman, SERS, UV–Vis, TEM, DLS) and investigation of the relationships between surface modification, optical response, and their potential applicability in biomedical diagnostics.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Bioinformatics ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Ctibor Škuta, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship

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High-Throughput Screening (HTS) is a key technology in the early stages of drug discovery. Interpreting results can be complicated by the presence of nuisance compounds behavior (PAINS, aggregators, autofluorescence, cytotoxicity, and others) that obscure the distinction between true and false positives. Metadata-rich datasets from the CZ-OPENSCREEN and EU-OPENSCREEN infrastructures, as well as large public repositories, such as PubChem, provide opportunity to better understand existing patterns, as well as identify new ones. This context-aware methodology aims to investigate how compound structures, experimental setup, and chosen biological targets relate to observed nuisance behavior. The work involves compiling, annotating, and developing tools for detecting and interpreting nuisance compounds, including substructure filters, curated compound lists, machine-learning models, and their composite approaches. Particular focus is given to distinguishing different nuisance mechanisms, highlighting the likelihood and severity of various flags, and their combinations, and compiling these insights into interpretable, human-readable formats. This work also involves exploring the use of large language models to generate clear, context-sensitive labels and descriptions. These tools can be packaged into open-access resources for compound triage and integrated into the CZ-/EU-OPENSCREEN ecosystem, with the CZ-OPENSCREEN facility offering their experimental validation.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Dana Kubies, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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In tissue engineering, vascularization of polymer scaffolds developed for tissue replacement is crucial for their functionality in the recipient body. Direct administration of free pro-angiogenic proteins (e.g., VEGF or FGF-2) often fails to produce effective results. Polymer-based delivery systems, such as nano- and microparticles, enabling controlled and localized release of growth factors, are therefore intensively studied. The PhD project aims to develop polyelectrolyte nano- and microparticles based on charge-shifting poly(dimethylaminoethyl acrylate) (PDMAEA) polycations for the controlled growth factor delivery. The gradual loss of charge on PDMAEA enables controlled particle degradation, sustained release of growth factors, and reduced toxicity, making these systems attractive for biomedical applications. The doctoral research will focus on i) the synthesis of PDMAEA-based block copolymers via RAFT polymerization to tune the particle charge density and corona composition, ii) the preparation of polyelectrolyte particles and characterization of their physicochemical properties (DLS, zeta potential measurements, IR spectroscopy, ITC, TEM), iii) investigation of protein loading and release behavior using ELISA, and iv) the evaluation of particle biocompatibility and protein bioactivity in collaboration with biologists. The interdisciplinary topic focuses on polymer chemistry and biomedical applications and is suitable for graduates of chemical disciplines such as macromolecular chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, etc.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Drugs and Biomaterials ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Jiří Pánek, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Bacterial infections, particularly those of the biofilm type, represent an increasing challenge for modern medicine, primarily due to rising antibiotic resistance. Cationic amphiphiles are highly effective local bactericides; however, for practical use on wounds, mucosal surfaces, or technical materials, it is often more advantageous to apply them not as concentrated solutions but in the form of controlled-release systems. Such formulations enable the long-term maintenance of lower, yet still bactericidal, concentrations of these agents, which are no longer harmful to human tissues. The aim of this doctoral dissertation is to prepare amphiphilic polyanions with varying structures and charge densities designed for the encapsulation and controlled release of micelles of cationic bactericides. The work will focus on elucidating the relationships between the structure of the polyanion and the bactericide, the efficiency of supramolecular encapsulation based on Coulombic interactions, the structure of the resulting polyplexes, and the release kinetics of the active component as influenced by temperature, ionic strength, and pH, as well as the associated bactericidal effects. A broad range of physicochemical methods will be employed to characterize these systems, including scattering techniques, fluorescence spectroscopy, isothermal titration calorimetry, and biological assays of antibacterial activity.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Drugs and Biomaterials ( in English language )
Supervisor:	RNDr. Jan Kučka, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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This doctoral thesis focuses on the development and optimization of labeling techniques for polymers and nanoparticles in the field of medicine. The labeling allows for tracking and provides valuable information for therapy and next biological testing. The main objective of this work is to develop methods for radioactive and fluorescent labeling of polymers and nanoparticles.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Hynek Beneš, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The plastic waste treatment and a sustainable use of synthetic polymers is one of the major environmental challenges of the 21st century. Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams are highly rigid foams primarily used for thermal insulation in construction, refrigeration, and other industries. They are produced by reacting polyols (which are typically derived from petroleum-based products) with isocyanates, resulting in a foam that has excellent insulating properties and resistance to fire and heat. PIR foams are chemically similar to polyurethane foams, but they have higher degree of isocyanurate content, which enhances their thermal stability and fire resistance. Recycling PIR foams is therefore challenging because their covalent structure is highly crosslinked and contains hydrolytically highly resistant structures that do not easily undergo chemical depolymerization. The aim of the PhD topic is to study the degradation behavior of PIR foams with the aim of finding a suitable method for their chemical recycling (solvolysis). The PhD candidates should have good communication skills in English (both in speaking and writing), should be able to work both in a team and independently. Active participation on foreign internships, trainings and scientific conferences is expected.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Drugs and Biomaterials ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Miroslav Vetrík, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The aim of this Ph.D. project is to develop a new generation of radiosensitizers and radioprotectants (targeted polymer conjugates as well as small molecules) with applications in modern oncology and in extreme conditions, such as interplanetary expeditions. The student will address a complex, interdisciplinary topic at the interface of organic/polymer chemistry and tumor biology. The project is best suited for candidates interested in organic/polymer synthesis who are not afraid to cross into biology, who have strong analytical thinking skills, and who are eager to learn modern tissue-culture techniques. Synthesis and design: Preparation of new bioactive compounds and polymer carriers, optimization of structure–activity relationships (SAR), and advanced characterization (NMR, LC–MS/HPLC). Radiobiology and 3D models: Testing of compounds in relevant models, with an emphasis on 3D tumor spheroids that mimic the real tumor microenvironment, including hypoxia and nutrient gradients. Mechanistic studies: Quantitative assessment of viability, visualization of compound penetration and cell death using confocal microscopy, and analysis of key pathways (DNA repair, senescence, mitochondrial stress).

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Zdeněk Starý, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Polymerní kompozity jsou materiály s vysokým aplikačním potenciálem pro použití v pokročilých technologiích. Téma se zabývá řízením vlastností mezifází polymer-plnivo pomocí povrchové modifikace částic plniva a jeho vlivem na reologické vlastnosti kompozitů se zvláštním důrazem na výskyt tokových nestabilit (žraločí kůže, lom taveniny atd.), které omezují zpracovatelské okno polymerních materiálů. Přestože reologické jevy vyvolané přítomností plniva jsou v literatuře popsány, jejich podstata a vysvětlení je často stále nejasná. Systematická studie vlivu velikosti částic, jejich koncentrace a povrchové modifikace na elastické vlastnosti polymerních tavenin a vznik tokových nestabilit bude základem této doktorské práce. Práce je převážně experimentální s použitím technik oscilační a kapilární reologie. Struktura kompozitů bude zkoumána zejména metodami elektronové mikroskopie a termické analýzy.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Drugs and Biomaterials ( in English language )
Supervisor:	doc. Mgr. Martin Hrubý, Ph.D., DSc.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The formation of bacterial biofilms is a one of the major issues in the current biomedical research. In the body, such biofilms are created on the surface of the medical devices, e.g., joint prostheses or heart valves, where they cause inflammation and chronic infections. The aim of this Ph.D. project is to develop a novel class of smart self-cleaning antibiofilm polymer surfaces, based on poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline)s, that are both anti-fouling and able to catalytically prevent the biofilm formation in the very long-term period. The project work includes polymer synthesis, the surfaces preparation and the study of their physicochemical properties. Moreover, the selected surfaces will be subjected to comprehensive in vitro and in vivo testing in the collaboration with biologists.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Ing. Hynek Beneš, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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The aim of this PhD topic is to prepare and characterize polymer materials based on renewable raw materials (carboxylic acids, vanillin derivatives, furan compounds, etc.). The prepared materials will be dynamically crosslinked through reversible covalent bonds and non-covalent interactions (hydrogen bonding, metal-ligand coordination bonds, complex formation or electrostatic/ionic interactions), which will give the material self-healing and recyclable properties. As part of the doctoral project, a student internship of several months at a foreign collaborating institution (Cracow University of Technology, Poland) is planned. Applicants should have good communication skills in English (spoken and written), and should be able to work in a team and independently. Active participation in foreign internships, trainings and scientific conferences is expected.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Drugs and Biomaterials ( in English language )
Supervisor:	doc. Mgr. Martin Hrubý, Ph.D., DSc.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

Annotation

Self-assembly of (macro)molecules is of crucial importance in the architecture of living organisms. Supramolecular systems have their key properties critically dependent on self-assembly and find use in the area of biomedical applications especially if they are able to reversibly react to external stimuli (changes in pH, light, redox potential, ultrasound, temperature, concentration of certain substances). The doctoral thesis will be based on chemical and/or physicochemical preparation and study of self-assembly of such multi-stimuli-responsive nanoparticles with external environment (pH, redox potential and temperature responsiveness); the exact topic will take into account the student´s interests. The studied nanoparticles and injectable depot systems will be designed for diagnostics and personalized immunoradiotherapy and immunochemotherapy of cancer and autoimmune diseases. Optimized nanoparticles will be then provided to collaborating biological workplaces for in vivo testing.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Gloria Huerta Angeles, PhD
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Releasing and accumulating contaminants, especially residues from pharmaceutical products, pose health risks to humans and have a negative and significant impact on the environment. This research focuses on the development of innovative nanocomposites derived from biomass-based monomers and biopolymers for the removal of environmental contaminants. The relationship between the structure and properties of materials for contaminant sorption is still not fully understood, which limits their effectiveness. The scope of this work will first involve the synthesis and comprehensive structural characterization of the prepared nanocomposites, including porosity, stability, mechanical and thermal properties, to explain their efficiency in terms of macromolecular structure and the presence of active sites. The second research objective will be the evaluation of nanocomposites in terms of their sorption efficiency. Sorption kinetics will be studied to identify the mechanism and rate of the sorption process. The third part of the research will focus on the biodegradation of the nanocomposites after sorption in bioreactors using effective microbial cultures (such as activated sludge). The efficiency of pollutant biodegradation within the nanocomposites will be monitored, followed by the biodegradation of the nanocomposite materials themselves. During the biodegradation process, the degradation mechanism and potential degradation products will be observed and analyzed using selected analytical techniques. This project offers an alternative to conventional methods, aiming to minimize environmental impacts and improve the efficiency of environmental technologies.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	RNDr. Miroslav Otmar, CSc.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Ion-exchange polymer membranes are widely used in laboratory and industrial applications. Major applications include electrochemical desalination of seawater and brackish water, wastewater treatment, separation of mixtures in the production of industrial chemicals and pharmaceuticals, separation of electrolytes from non-electrolytes in electrochemical devices such as electrolyzers, fuel cells and batteries. Recently, their use in hydrogen management and storage of excess electricity from renewable sources has become increasingly important. The use of so-called green hydrogen produced in electrolyzers is one of the ways in the transition to carbon-free energy. The topic includes the synthesis of polymers and polymer membranes bearing functional groups for a specific purpose. For example, sulfo and phosphono groups for cation-exchange or quaternary ammonium groups for anione-exchange materials. In addition, these polymers are useful for electrode design, as catalyst supports and for other applications. Preparative organic chemistry and polymerization reaction methods are commonly applied. Our department is flexible enough to give the potential candidate enough room to apply his or her ingenuity.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Drugs and Biomaterials ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Miroslav Vetrík, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Treatment of hypoxic tumors is complicated due to higher radio/chemo resistance resulting in the subsequently lower clinical outcome of the treatment. We propose to explore a new concept of self-assembled polymer radiosensitizers to overcome the problem low hypoxic tumor radiosensitivity. The proposed approach is based on restoration of radiosensitivity of hypoxic cancer tissue by actively hypoxia-targeted delivery of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-precursors as well as on selective decomposition of hydrogen peroxide in hypoxic tissue influencing the HIF-1 alpha system. The proposed concept utilizes hydrophilic biocompatible polymer-based carriers with hypoxia-targeting nitroaromatics systems. The doctoral thesis will be based on synthesis, chemical and/or physicochemical characterization and study of self-assembly properties of such multi-stimuli-responsive nanoparticles with external environment; the exact topic will take into account the student´s interests. The studied nanoparticles and injectable depot systems will be designed for diagnostics and personalized immunoradiotherapy and immunochemotherapy of cancer and autoimmune diseases. Optimized nanoparticles will be then provided to collaborating biological workplaces for in vivo testing.

Study place:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Guaranteeing Departments:	Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS
Study Programme/Specialization:	Chemistry ( in English language )
Supervisor:	Mgr. Dana Kubies, Ph.D.
Expected Form of Study:	Full-time
Expected Method of Funding:	Scholarship + salary

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Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is a biocompatible, biodegradable polyester with tunable mechanical properties, representing a promising alternative to non-degradable biomaterials—particularly for soft tissue regeneration and other applications requiring flexible elastomeric scaffolds. This PhD project aims to address current challenges in the 3D printing of PGS, which include optimizing the composition and viscosity of printable “inks,” developing efficient cross-linking methods, whether photo-induced or enzyme-mediated, and improving the biocompatibility of highly hydrophobic PGS through 3D printing of blended inks with biopolymers such as collagen. The student will gain experience in various synthesis techniques, 3D printing methods, and material characterization procedures using modern instrumentation (GPC, ¹H and ¹³C NMR, UV/VIS and fluorescence spectroscopy, Cellink BioX 3D printer, electron and optical microscopy, rheological measurements). A background in polymer chemistry, organic chemistry, or biomaterials is an advantage but not a requirement — what matters most is a willingness to learn and explore new areas in these fields.