Droplet-based microfluidics for biological and environmental applications
The PhD candidate will join the 5-year EcoDropLab project, developing sustainable droplet-based microfluidics platforms for biological and environmental research, especially microplastic-related microbial processes. Research includes bacterial aggregation, biofilms, antimicrobial resistance, and screening antimicrobial compounds using microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip systems, microscopy, and materials science in an interdisciplinary, international environment.
The PhD candidate will join the 5-year “EcoDropLab” project, which focuses on developing a sustainable and accessible droplet-based microfluidics platform for biological and environmental research, with a particular focus on microplastic-related microbial processes. This includes studying how microplastics influence bacterial aggregation, biofilm formation, and antimicrobial resistance, as well as enabling screening of antimicrobial and antibiofilm compounds. The project combines a wide range of approaches, including droplet-based microfluidic workflows, 3D-printed lab-on-a-chip systems, experimental work in biology and chemistry, microscopy-based analysis, and materials science aspects related to microplastics and device development. Within this framework, the candidate will contribute to selected aspects of the project and have the opportunity to shape their research direction based on their background and interests. The candidate will work in an interdisciplinary environment combining microbiology, chemistry, engineering, and materials science, collaborating across departments and with international partners.
Responsibilities and foreseen tasks:
The PhD project is embedded within the broader EcoDropLab framework and encompasses several research directions. Depending on the candidate’s background and interests, potential foreseen tasks include:
- Development of sustainable and user-friendly droplet-based microfluidic technologies for biological and environmental applications
- Investigation of microbial processes, including bacterial aggregation, biofilm formation, and antimicrobial resistance, in relation to microplastics
- Screening and evaluation of antimicrobial and antibiofilm compounds using microfluidic approaches
- Design and development of lab-on-a-chip systems, including 3D-printed devices, and their integration into experimental workflows
- Materials science related to microplastics and microfluidic device development
- Prospective candidates are encouraged to contribute to and help shape the research direction within the overall objectives of the EcoDropLab project.
Applicants should fulfil the following requirements:
- A master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline)
- Experience with basic laboratory work and experimental techniques
- Clear interest in the highly interdisciplinary research topic of the position
- Ability to work both independently and as part of an international and collaborative research team
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Good written and oral communication skills in English
The following experience is beneficial:
- Experience with microfluidics (especially droplet-based systems)
- Background in biofilm research, antimicrobial resistance, and/or microplastic-related studies
- Experience with 3D printing, materials science, or device fabrication
- Experience with microscopy and/or image analysis
- Experience with data analysis or basic programming skills
We offer:
- 4-year PhD position in a leading technological research University in Estonia that is also its most international university
- Opportunities for conference visits, research stays and interdisciplinary networking with international collaborators
- We offer a starting salary package with 27600 EUR/year gross, with potential for increase depending on performance
- Position comes with full social and medical benefits in Estonia
Supervisors:
Main supervisor: Senior Researcher Simona Bartkova: Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology: Division of Gene technology and biomedicine
Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is an international scientific community with approximately 9,000 students and 2,000 employees; it is one of the largest universities in Estonia, the leading EU country in digitalisation. The university's strengths are broad multidisciplinary study/research interests, a modern research environment, and strong collaboration with international educational and research institutions. TalTech is aiming to be an organisation leading the way to a sustainable digital future.
The Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology (DCB) at TalTech develops innovative solutions to major global challenges, including climate change, environmental protection, carbon neutrality, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation. With over 100 years of experience in interdisciplinary research and education, DCB provides high-level training in chemistry, biotechnology, gene technology, and food sciences. The department combines fundamental and applied research with hands-on learning, offering students and researchers access to modern laboratories, international collaborations, and opportunities to work on cutting-edge scientific and technological developments.
For information about the admission process, please visit the PhD Admission homepage
Applications can be submitted from 01.06.2026 to 30.06.2026
