Call for applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate working under the topic “Synthesis and Investigation of Porous Calcium Phosphate Coatings with Enhanced Pore Interconnectivity and Antibacterial Activity for Implant Application”, at the Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences, Vilnius University, is now open.
Duration: 2 years
The deadline for applications: 2024 May 10th.
Budget: Staff cost full-time work position – 3 100 Euro/per month (all taxes included).
About the project
The focus of the proposed project is the improvement of the properties of calcium phosphate coatings used for implants through iterative synthesis and investigation of the results obtained. The project will be led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Živilė Stankevičiūtė.
A variety of calcium phosphate structures have, to date, been synthesized and employed as bone-repair materials. Different structures exhibit properties that make them suitable for different use cases. Even so, their practical use in medicine still has room to be expanded upon, and is still a relevant topic that is open for new research opportunities.
Among such research opportunities, high-quality coating of implants is an especially promising area, combining the best mechanical properties of implants, while offering improved biocompability and efficient healing process on the site of intervention. The structural properties of the coatings are key to achieving this functionality. Porosity is an important parameter determining the healing process and adaptation of the implant, while antibacterial properties lower the risk of infections and complications.
In an attempt to improve these properties, the main objective of the project will be to perform synthesis of calcium phosphate structures and their coatings on common implant materials and implants themselves in an attempt to achieve improvements in their properties – with a focus on controlling porosity and pore properties, as well as achieving antibacterial properties.
The postdoctoral researcher in this position will be able to carry out independent research and receive ample funds to do so. The institute will provide extensive support, with access to research equipment and administrative infrastructure, as well as providing opportunities for national and international cooperation.
Inquiries regarding this position should be addressed to Dr. Živilė Stankevičiūtė by email
Essential requirements for the candidates
- PhD degree in chemistry, materials science, dental science or a related discipline completed during the last 5 years (the 5-year period does not include the duration of a granted pregnancy, maternal or parental leave)
- Proficiency in English both written and oral.
- Research background in calcium phosphate-based biomaterials.
What we are looking for in a candidate
- Research interests in bioceramics, calcium phosphates, carbonate apatites, or related fields
- Publications in international peer-reviewed journals
- Experience in international research projects
- Methodological skills (sufficient knowledge to carry out synthesis and characterization of materials by methods most commonly used for bioceramics, such as XRD, FTIR, SEM, histological evaluation of biomaterials and others)
- Interests in teaching with supervisory skills
- Good organizational skills; easy adaptation to different environments of work and to a new international team
What we offer
- Conduct independent research on specific research questions of your interest pertaining to this topic.
- Additional national and international collaboration, teaching, project work and other opportunities\
- Generous research and administration support (research equipment, project administration, conferences, summer schools, etc,)
- Work in Vilnius University– a prestigious institution of science and studies in Lithuania.
How to apply
Application packages should be sent to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Živilė Stankevičiūtė (
- Application form
- Free-form description of life and scientific activities (CV)
- List of scientific publications (list up to 10 of your most important publications)
- Recommendations from two researchers
- Copy of Certificate of PhD degree