|
Chemical and Process Engineering
Doctoral Programme,
Faculty of Chemical Engineering
The PhD study programme Chemical and Process Engineering aims on the education of experts with a wide range of knowledge and skills for both academic and industrial applications. The students learn in detail theoretical basis of chemical and process engineering, bio-engineering and material engineering as well as experimental and practical aspects of the field. This will create prerequisites for their further career in the basic or applied research in chemical and process engineering but also in the related areas, such as material engineering, bio engineering and informatics. CareersGraduates of this study programme gain the expertise in transport phenomena, thermodynamics, reaction engineering, continuum fluid mechanics, material engineering and chemical-engineering aspects of environmental protection. Specialized knowledge includes applied informatics, mathematical modeling, numerical methods, non-linear dynamics and programming for scientific and technical computations. The graduates find jobs in applied research and development in chemical, pharmaceutical, bio-engineering and advanced material industry, including management of the research and development. The graduates are also successful in academic work at technical universities, research institutes and academies of sciences. Programme Details
Ph.D. topics for study year 2026/27Aktivně cílené samouspořádané systémy
AnnotationThe 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. Pokročilé funkční polyelektrolytové filmy pro antibakteriální aplikace
AnnotationAntibacterial 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. Bioaktivní povlaky na bázi vícevrstevnatých polyelektrolytických filmů syntetických polykationtů s nestálým nábojem pro uvolňování terapeutických proteinů.
AnnotationIn 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. Biomimetické fibrinové povlaky obohacené glykosaminoglykany a peptidy pro podporu endotelizace a hemokompatibility vaskulárních implantátů
AnnotationThe 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. Diagnostika dvoufázového toku v mikrokanálech
AnnotationThe aim of this project is to experimentally investigate the character of two-phase (gas/liquid) flow in microchannels. The mapping of different flow regimes will be performed for different microchannel configurations (e.g., channel crossing, T-junction, sudden expansion) and different model fluids (Newtonian, viscoelastic, pseudoplastic). The electrodiffusion method, an original experimental technique developed in our department, is used to determine the liquid flow in the near-wall region and to detect the characteristics of translating bubbles. The visualization experiments with a high-speed camera and the velocity field measurements with the mPIV technique will provide additional information about the flow structure in microchannels. The candidate should have a Master's degree in chemical engineering or a similar applied science field. He/she should have experimental skills for laboratory work and some basic knowledge of hydrodynamics. However, enthusiasm for independent scientific work is the most important requirement. The candidate will certainly benefit from our long experience in experimental (computer-controlled measurements with subsequent data processing in LabView) and theoretical (solving complex hydrodynamic problems in MatLab or Mathematica) fluid mechanics. Vliv adheze na dynamiku a segregaci granulárních materiálů při míchání
AnnotationThe PhD project focuses on the role of adhesion in the behavior of granular systems during mechanical mixing. Using the discrete element method (DEM) with cohesive contact models (JKR, bond model) and experimental validation, the study will investigate how adhesion influences segregation patterns and the dynamics of agglomerate formation and breakup. The aim is to understand under what conditions and in what ways adhesion modifies segregation, and what factors determine agglomerate stability under mechanical stress. Required education and skills • Master's degree in chemical engineering, mathematical modeling, and computer science; • high motivation, willingness to learn new things; • team spirit. Vliv vlastností mezifázového rozhraní na dynamiku bublin
AnnotationMultiphase systems consisting of a gas phase dispersed in a liquid environment are omnipresent in nature and in living systems. Gas-liquid contact is also responsible for the success of many industrial processes, such as flotation, or aerated reactors. Surfactants, SAS, with their ability to lower the interfacial tension between gas-liquid phases, alter the behavior of many multiphase processes, and for many systems, the characterization of the interface by surface tension alone is not enough and less conventional measurements of surface rheology and SAS adsorption/desorption characteristics are crucial. The aim of this work is to determine experimentally the influence of surfactants on the dynamics of processes with bubbles (movement, dissolution, coalescence, etc.) and to characterize selected SASs by measuring relevant physico-chemical and transport properties. The typical work will include measurements of interfacial rheology, observation and evaluation of bubble dynamics by high-speed camera, and physical interpretation of results. Required education and skills • Master degree in chemical or mechanical engineering or in physical chemistry; • Systematic and creative approach to scientific research, teamwork ability. Transport tepla v granulárních materiálech při mechanickém míchání
AnnotationThe PhD project focuses on the relationship between particle contact dynamics and heat transfer in mixed granular systems. Using a combination of the discrete element method (DEM), CFD simulations, and experiments in a rotating drum and vertical mixer, the study will investigate how the type and intensity of mixing affect the dominant mechanisms of heat transport. The aim is to link microscopic contact mechanics with the macroscopic thermal behavior of the system. Required education and skills • Master's degree in chemical engineering, mathematical modeling, and computer science; • high motivation, willingness to learn new things; • team spirit. Methakrylamidové a akrylamidové kopolymery citlivé na vnější podněty: pokročilé systémy pro dopravu léčiv a diagnostik
AnnotationPolymeric micelles and nanoparticles are studied in the field of drug delivery and targeted drug release, especially in anticancer therapy. Thanks to their size (20-1000 nm), they accumulate in tumors due to the enhanced permeation and accumulation (EPR) effect. They protect incorporated drugs during transport and help to solubilize poorly soluble drugs. The potential thermoresponsive behaviour of the polymers used avoids the complicated techniques common to the preparation of micelles and other nanoparticle-based systems. The presence of suitable hydrolytically labile groups in the structure of the polymers can be exploited to ensure the gradual degradation of the nanoparticles and to ensure excretion of the polymer from the organism. With the intention of preparing nanoparticles with thermoresponsive and pH-sensitive properties, amphiphilic diblock copolymers consisting of a fully hydrophilic block, e.g., poly[N-(1,3-dihydroxypropyl)(meth)acrylamide] and an amphiphilic block, e.g., poly[N-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)(meth)acrylamide], will be prepared by controlled radical RAFT polymerization. The associative behaviour of the copolymers in aqueous solutions, the formation and disintegration of nanoparticles or micelles will be studied by various physicochemical methods, e.g. size-exclusion chromatography, dynamic light scattering, NMR and transmission electron microscopy. The proposed systems offer the possibility to transport in particular anticancer drugs. Mikrobubliny: tvorba, vlastnosti, použití
AnnotationMicrobubbles are small gas bubbles (approximately 1-1000 microns in size) dispersed in a liquid. In many respects, they behave differently from 'normal' bubbles measuring millimeters and centimeters, which are used in most multiphase devices (contactors, reactors). They have a low rising velocity and thus a long delay time, which improves transport and reaction processes and reduces waste. They have a large specific surface area (m2)/(m3) for a given volume of gas in the device. They are increasingly used in various applications, but still their behaviour under complex industrial conditions is not fully understood. In this dissertation, the student will learn the basic skills of working with microbubbles, such as their preparation using microbubble generators and the characterization of their basic properties. They will then solve a given project involving their specific use in a process or application. The project topic will be assigned by agreement, depending on current opportunities and possibilities. The knowledge gained will be applicable in various types of industrial applications (chemical, biotechnological, food, metallurgical, pharmaceutical, environmental, etc.). Requirements • Master degree, in chemical engineering or a related field, creative approach to research, and teamwork ability. Molecular Simulations of Interaction of Hybrid Lipid-based Drug Nanocarriers with Biological Interfaces
AnnotationTopical ocular drug delivery is governed by biophysical interactions between drug nanocarriers and biological interfaces, such as the tear film lipid layer (TFLL), the first protective barrier in the eye. The structure, composition, and interfacial behavior of drug nanocarriers determine their compatibility with the TFLL, influencing residence time and drug release, which is essential for optimal drug delivery performance. However, the mechanisms by which these drugs interact with such biological interfaces remain poorly understood at the molecular level. In this doctoral thesis, the applicant will study the structure–function relationships governing drug–TFLL interactions using various computational approaches, including state-of-the-art molecular dynamics simulations with atomistic and coarse-grained MARTINI force fields, and continuous comparison with available experimental data. Specifically, the applicant will refine the MARTINI coarse-grained force field for complex polymer/biological interface interactions, using complementary all-atom MD simulations. They will later be used to study the interactions of various commercial drug nanocarriers, as well as the newly designed lipid-polymer-peptide drug nanocarriers with the TFLL, with the goal of rational design of more effective drug delivery systems. Polyelektrolytické částice pro uvolňování růstových faktorů podporujících vaskularizaci polymerních nosičů v bioaplikacích.
AnnotationIn 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. Polymerní nosiče kationtových detergentů pro bezpečnou antibakteriální terapii
AnnotationBacterial 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. Polymerní koloidy jako speciální nosiče pro transport biologicky aktivních látek nosní dutinou
AnnotationThe project is focused on the development, synthesis and characterization of novel polymer particles in colloidal form for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes via intranasal administration. The particles will be prepared by heterogeneous polymerisation techniques (dispersion or precipitation) and the main polymerisation reaction will be based on an aromatic substitution mechanism. Bioanalogic substances derived from aromatic structures of plant and animal origin will be used as monomers. The influence of reaction conditions on the morphology and composition of polymer particles and other physicochemical parameters determining the behaviour of polymer particles in biological environments will be studied. Subsequently, the particles will be derivatized for their detection using preclinical imaging methods so that their biodistribution and pharmacokinetics can be monitored after intranasal administration. Biological testing of the particles will be performed at the collaborating departments of the UEM CAS and the 1st Faculty of Medicine of the Charles University. The aim of this collaboration is to describe how the composition and morphology of the particles from the new polymer types affects the mechanism of each type of intranasal delivery further into the body. The researcher will be based in the laboratories of the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry at the BIOCEV Biotechnology Centre. Radioaktivní a fluorescenční značení polymerů a nanočástic pro medicínu a preklinické testování.
AnnotationThis 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. Nanonosiče citlivé na reaktivní formy kyslíku: Inovativní inteligentní nanoléčiva
AnnotationNanomedicines gain advantage in biomedical applications if they are tailored to be degradable in response to certain external stimuli. Such stimulus may be enzymatic removal of protecting groups, a pH change, light or more recently, the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer environment. In this project, imbalances of the cellular microenvironment (pH changes, ROS production) will be explored for the synthesis of stimuli-responsive polymers and block copolymers. Inspired by the ease and effectiveness of the self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers in solution, several polymer nanomedicines (PNM) i.e., polymer micelles, polymer nanoparticles and polymersomes will be developed. They will show tunable stimuli-induced degradation in the presence of physiologically relevant changes in pH, temperature or ROS concentrations. The nanospecies will be prepared by microfluidic nanoprecipitation. This technique allows the production of uniform particles with controllable size, shape and surface chemistry in a reproducible and scalable manner. The PMN self-assemblies produced will be characterized using standard scattering techniques (DSL/SLS/ELS, SAXS and SANS) and imaged by microscopy (SEM, TEM and Cryo-TEM). The effectiveness of the PMN will be evaluated in in vitro and in in vivo models. Výzkum cílených radiomodulátorů a buněčné odpovědi na radiaci
AnnotationThe 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). Breakup and coalescence of bubbles and droplets
AnnotationLiquid-gas and liquid-liquid dispersions form part of many technological and biotechnological processes. In turbulent fluid flow, fluid particles (bubbles or droplets) break and coalesce to form a complex multiphase system. Understanding the mechanism of particle breakup and coalescence is important because theoretical models describing this processes are required for the numerical modelling of complex, multiphase systems. This doctoral thesis will focus on experimentally studying the dynamic behaviour of bubbles or droplets during controlled fluid particle breakup and coalescence, with the aim of quantifying quantities that are important for numerical models, as well as determining the size distribution of newly formed particles. The mechanisms of breakup and coalescence will be studied in relation to various selected hydrodynamic and physicochemical conditions of the system. The workplace is well equipped for studying bubble/drop breakup and coalescence. Apparatus is available for the controlled formation of bubbles, toroidal vortices and bubble/drop interactions. The necessary control and evaluation programmes are also available. Requirements for applicants: A university education (master's degree) in chemical or mechanical engineering; the ability to work systematically and creatively as part of a team; an interest in experimental work. Samočistící antibiofilmové polymerní povrchy
AnnotationThe 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. Separace organických par a plynů funkcionalizovanými membránami
AnnotationMetal/covalent organic frameworks, as well as functionalized nanostructure materials with ionic liquids, are advancing the separation capabilities of polymer membranes for gas and organic vapor separations. Such functionalization of membranes also suppresses negative phenomena, such as plasticization and aging, which limit the use of a new generation of polymeric materials with excellent separation properties. This work aims to investigate the effect of the type and amount of functionalization on the transport-separation parameters and the structure of membranes. The study of the transport and separation properties will be carried out using automated systems to measure the permeation of gas and organic vapor mixtures. Also, the possibilities of predicting transport parameters using physical models and machine learning methods will be explored. Required education and skills: • Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Physical Chemistry, or any relevant field; • interest in science, willingness for experimental work, and to learn new things; teamwork ability. Supramolekulární polymerní systémy citlivé na vnější podněty pro biomedicínské aplikace
AnnotationSelf-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. Syntéza a aplikace polymerních lapačů interagujících s kationtovými amfifilními peptidy kompenzací náboje.
AnnotationBiocompatible polymer ions have been intensively studied as promising materials in the therapeutical and diagnostical fields of nanomedicine. Recently, it was demonstrated that polyanions with a high charge density are able to suppress the biological effects of the cationic amphiphilic peptide (CAMP) melittin from bee venom by binding it to the polyplex complex. In the future bio-inspirited nanostructures loaded by toxic drug inside release the drug in the needed place. Drug will be honey bee poison melittin. Needed place will be cancer. The cathelicidin is an element of innate immunity, that plays an important role in the development of the pathogenic process in psoriasis. Both cathelicidin and defensins are CAMPs are expected to behave similar to mellitin from the point of view of interaction with polyanions such as polyacrylic acid. Thus, scavenging these peptides by locally administered polyanions should break the cytokine storm cycle, leading to the induction of psoriasis, and thus suppress it. The series of nanogels acids will be prepared using microemulsion polymerization technique. In vitro testing (hemolysis on mouse erythrocytes) of obtained materials will be performed. Chemical, physical and biomedical investigation will be performed. Syntéza a aplikace kvantových teček na zakládě potaženého oxidu křemičitého v bioinženýrství.
AnnotationQuantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanoparticles with outstanding optoelectronic properties. More specifically, QDs are highly bright and exhibit wide absorption spectra, narrow light bands, and excellent photovoltaic stability, which make them useful in bioscience and medicine, particularly for sensing, optical imaging, cell separation, and diagnosis. In general, QDs are stabilized using a hydrophobic ligand during synthesis, and thus their hydrophobic surfaces must undergo hydrophilic modification if the QDs are to be used in bioapplications. Silica-coating is one of the most effective methods for overcoming the disadvantages of QDs, owing to silica’s physicochemical stability, nontoxicity, and excellent bioavailability. Micro and nano-particles of SiO2 will be covered by polydopamine, or by mixture of citric acid and urea, or by melamine. The covered layer will be carbonized in the presence of conducting metal ionically connected to the covered layer. The entire SiO2 can be dissolved. Rest hollow charged particles will be examined by electrochemical, fluorescent methods and other techniques needed for characterization of quantum dots. Syntéza a charakterizace vysoce citlivých bimodálních senzorů rozpuštěného kyslíku pro EPR/FLIM oxymetrii
AnnotationThe project aims to the preparation and characterization of water-soluble trivalent carbon-centered radicals equipped with additional fluorescence groups for direct, noninvasive and repeatable dissolved molecular quantification, enabling also measurement in cells and vessels. The quantification of oxygen levels in-vitro and in-vivo is important not only for the understanding of physiological processes, but also in the assessment and therapy of pathological conditions such as cancer, peripheral vascular disease, inflammatory and wounds. It is extremally challenging to obtain exact oxygenation values in cells or in tissues at microscopic scale. In this project we are combining two of the best suited techniques for this purpose by creating a single bimodal molecular detector. The first oxygen detection method is based on EPR line broadening caused by paramagnetic O2 molecules tumbling in proximity of the radical and the second method is based on fluorescence quenching or fluorescence lifetime shortening due to interactions with oxygen. The two types of equipment will be used for the detection - electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometer and confocal microscopy equipped with fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM). The molecules will also be tested on 3D cell cultures (spheroids). Cílená radioterapie pro léčbu hypoxických nádorů
AnnotationTreatment 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. 3D tisk poly(glycerol-sebakátu) pro aplikace v tkáňovém inženýrství.
AnnotationPoly(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, ?H and ??C 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. |
Updated: 20.1.2022 16:26, Author: Jan Kříž