Job Information
- Organisation/Company: L2CM/Université de Lorraine
- Research Field: Chemistry » Organic chemistry; Biological sciences » Biology
- Researcher Profile: Other Profession
- Positions: Master Positions
- Application Deadline: 30 Oct 2026 - 23:00 (Europe/Paris)
- Country: France
- Type of Contract: Temporary
- Job Status: Full-time
- Hours Per Week: 35
- Offer Starting Date: 4 Jan 2027
- Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?: Not funded by a EU programme
Offer Description
The project
From light as a risk factor to light as a therapeutic tool
While certain forms of light radiation can contribute to harmful biological effects, light can also be harnessed to trigger or modulate therapeutic activity. This duality is at the heart of the B-DUAL project, which aims to develop innovative photomodulated systems for therapeutic applications.
The B-DUAL project explores an innovative approach combining busulfan, cyclodextrins and a photosensitizer within a single supramolecular system (Bu–CD–PS). Busulfan provides the pharmacological activity, the cyclodextrin acts as a solubilizing and delivery platform, while the photosensitizer enables controlled light activation.
The project aims to explore photodynamic (PDT) and/or photothermal therapy (PTT), with a particular focus on activation in the near-infrared region (NIR, 650–900 nm), for potential applications in skin cancers and associated viral infections.
The project is deliberately exploratory and aims to establish an initial proof of concept for a therapeutic strategy combining anticancer and antiviral potential.
Internship activities
The intern will contribute to the development of B-DUAL systems, from molecular design and synthesis to their initial biological evaluation:
- synthesis and/or functionalization of cyclodextrins and photosensitizers;
- conjugation and assembly of CD–PS and Bu–CD–PS systems;
- purification and physicochemical characterization;
- UV–visible spectroscopy, fluorescence and photoreactivity studies;
- evaluation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) generation and, where relevant, photothermal properties;
- investigation and optimization of NIR irradiation conditions;
- comparison of busulfan, busulfan–cyclodextrin and Bu–CD–PS, with and without irradiation.
Depending on project progress, the intern may also participate in biological studies using skin cancer cell models and antiviral models, including HSV-1, HSV-2, CMV and BKPyV.
An interdisciplinary chemistry–biology project
The internship combines organic and supramolecular chemistry, medicinal chemistry, photophysics and biology. The work will be carried out at L2CM, with access to research platforms at Université de Lorraine and to the PhotoNS platform for irradiation and phototherapy studies.
The intern will have the opportunity to follow a research workflow ranging from molecular design to biological evaluation, within an interdisciplinary and international research environment.
Where to apply
E-mail: mihayl.varbanov@univ-lorraine.fr
Requirements
Research Field: Chemistry » Organic chemistry
Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
Candidate profile
We are looking for a Master 2 / MSc student in Chemistry, Molecular Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry or a closely related field.
A solid background in organic synthesis is expected, together with an interest in supramolecular chemistry, photophysics and biomedical applications. Previous experience in synthesis, molecular characterization, photophysics, formulation or biology would be an advantage.
The candidate should be curious, independent, rigorous and motivated by interdisciplinary research. A good level of scientific English is required; an international profile or previous academic/research experience abroad will be particularly appreciated.
Perspectives
B-DUAL is an emerging project with strong scientific potential. The work may lead to scientific publications, conference presentations and new research collaborations, with potential opportunities for valorization and further research, including PhD-level research.
- Languages: ENGLISH — Excellent
- Languages: FRENCH — Basic
Research Field: Chemistry » Organic chemistry
Additional Information
Selection process
Application: Please submit a CV, a cover letter, a copy of your M1 transcripts, and two letters of recommendation, including the referees’ contact details.
Contact: mihayl.varbanov@univ-lorraine.fr and florence.dumarcay@univ-lorraine.fr
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available: 2
- Company/Institute: L2CM
- Country: France
Contact
- City: Vandoeuvre les Nancy
- Website: http://www.l2cm.univ-lorraine.fr/l2cm/?page_id=53&categorie_actualites=all
- Street: Bvd des Aiguillettes
- Postal Code: 54506
- E-Mail: andreea.pasc@univ-lorraine.fr