Seeking an MSCA-PF Fellow in Analytical Chemistry/Sensor Development to explore accessible appr[...]

Department of Bioscience and Agro-Food and Environmental Technology

Organisation / Company University of Teramo Department Department of Bioscience and Agro-Food and Environmental Technology Laboratory NanoUnite Lab Is the Hosting related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

This project focuses on developing modular (bio)analytical devices that can be upgraded with specific components to meet diverse analytical needs, from routine tests to emergency diagnostics. The approach involves creating advanced electroanalytical devices that combine laser-induced nanostructures, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and functional ink or 3D filament formulations. The goal is to lay the foundation for transforming diagnostics through an accessible, upgradable approach. Keywords: nanomaterials, (bio)sensors, device manufacturing, conductive films.

The research will address the following three key questions:

1) Is it possible to develop high-performance analytical devices and their components using accessible instrumentation?

2) How can laser-plotter nanostructuration, additive manufacturing, and ink/3D filament formulations be advantageous for producing analytical devices while also promoting sustainability?

3) Is it possible to provide the final user with devices, components, and their upgrades, all within everyone's reach, for final at-home or in-field diagnostic purposes?

The project aims to:

• Advanced knowledge in Analytical Chemistry, Applied Nanomaterial Science, and Sensors and Microsystems.
• Introduce innovative theoretical and methodological perspectives for the development of upgradable analytical devices and their components to support diagnostics that can be performed outside equipped laboratories.
• Strengthen interdisciplinary and international approaches, including the coexistence of analytical advances, sensing and microsystems, and the science of functional nanomaterials. International secondments will be arranged to broaden knowledge and expand networks.
• Contribute to addressing relevant scientific and societal challenges, making diagnostics accessible, modern, and affordable for everyone to meet current, future, and emergency diagnostic needs

How will you carry out your work?

The NanoUniteLab is a laboratory focused on applied nanoscience and nanotechnology to develop cutting-edge sensors and analytical devices. Our mission is to expand knowledge and explore new frontiers in the development of nanoequipped analytical devices, with the ultimate aim of advancing society through scientific innovation, and to provide structured training for young researchers. Methodologically, the project will adopt a scientific, analytical approach to develop modular devices using various nanostructuring and microfabrication techniques. The devices will be designed and tested to enable upgradeability across a range of analyses and diagnostics. To overcome laborious, expensive, and unsustainable conventional fabrication techniques, the project will focus on implementing effective, sustainable technologies to produce nanostructured intelligent analytical devices for all-in-one analysis, ensuring scientific rigor, originality, and a high level of ambition.

The selected fellow will be encouraged to progressively develop an independent research profile within this framework.

Who will supervise you – and why is this strong mentoring?

The NanoUniteLab is a laboratory focused on applied nanoscience and nanotechnology to develop cutting-edge sensors and analytical devices. The project will be supervised by Prof. Flavio Della Pelle , along with colleagues and collaborators. The group has extensive international experience in sensor, biosensor, and analytical device fabrication using emerging low-cost techniques based on nano- and microstructured materials for the rapid detection of food, environmental, and biological (bio)markers.

Links to learn more about our research and scientific dissemination activities:

The NanoUniteLab maintains an active research profile in Analytical Chemistry, Applied Nanomaterial Science, and Sensors and Microsystems, with demonstrated expertise in nanostructured sensors and biosensors, as well as in the development and implementation of innovative nanostructured sensing surfaces. The group is actively engaged in international research networks, as evidenced by the scientific activities reported (see the provided links).

The NanoUnite Lab, part of the Analytical Chemistry Group of the Department of Bioscience and Agro-Food and Environmental Technology, provides a stimulating, supportive environment that fosters scientific independence and excellence, promotes a peer-to-peer management approach, and offers international exposure through a broad network of contacts and collaborators worldwide.

Why is UniTE a competitive host institution for MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The University of Teramo (UniTE) offers a highly structured and supportive environment for MSCA Postdoctoral Fellows.

Selected candidates applying to the MSCA PF 2026 call will benefit from:

• Full support from the UniTE MSCA Desk throughout the entire pre-award phase ;
• Dedicated proposal training (MSCA PF Master Class) ;
• Two-step professional proposal review (sequential reviews before submission) .

Funded fellows will also benefit from:

• Full support from the UniTE MSCA Desk for the post-award phase;
• A tailored welcome and mobility support service (arrival, departure, and administrative procedures);
• Access to all UNITE Analytical Chemistry laboratories is provided, especially to the NanoUnite Lab facilities and their network. This includes the newly established 'Rapid diagnostic' laboratory at the Agribioserv research center, which features advanced instruments for fabricating nanostructured devices and for their application and characterization.
• Opportunities for collaboration with prestigious European universities and research institutes in applied materials science, advanced sensors, and frontier analytical chemistry (one or two secondment periods will be considered within the context of the application; our collaborators are evident from our scientific production) to strengthen the fellow’s international profile.

UniTE is strongly committed to Open Science, Gender Equality, research integrity, and high-quality doctoral and postdoctoral training.

Are you the ideal candidate for this fellowship?

We welcome applications from outstanding early-career researchers who:

• hold a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (i.e., analytical chemistry, chemistry, nanotechnology, etc.);
• possess relevant knowledge, experience, and personal competencies aligned with the topic of the call,

have previous experience consistent with the topic of the call;

have additional relevant experience in nanofilm formation, applied electrochemistry, (bio) sensor development, analytical chemistry, and biochemistry;

demonstrate proficiency with scientific software and common lab equipment;

have Basic laboratory experience (mandatory). Preference will be given to candidates with a solid research background in applied electrochemistry, analytical chemistry, the use and production of conductive nanomaterials, and the development of sensors and biosensors;

show high levels of motivation and independence, with a clear willingness to learn and explore research frontiers;

• demonstrate excellent academic writing skills in English;
• are motivated to develop an independent and internationally competitive research profile.

What will you gain from this MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship?

By participating in this MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship call, you will be able to address the following key career outcomes:

• Develop an excellent and innovative research profile in applied nanoscience and nanotechnology for developing cutting-edge sensors and analytical devices
• produce high-quality scientific outputs in leading international journals and outlets;
• strengthen scientific independence and intellectual leadership.

Impact

• enhance your international visibility and reputation within the research community;
• contribute to the advancement of knowledge and to societal and policy-relevant debates in Analytical Chemistry, Applied Nanomaterial Science, Biosensors, and Sensors and Microsystems ;
• actively engage in dissemination, communication, and open science practices.

Employability

• acquire advanced transferable skills developing a tailored programme;
• expand professional networks across academia, policy institutions, and intersectoral stakeholders.
• improve long-term career prospects within and beyond academia.

Overall, the fellowship will support the fellow’s transition towards a sustainable and competitive research career as an excellent next generation researcher , in line with the objectives of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.

How to Apply for the Pre-selection Phase?

Before applying, we invite you to check that you meet all eligibility criteria for the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 by consulting the official European Portal .

If you are eligible and interested in choosing UniTE as your Host Institution, please complete the online pre-selection application form by 31 March at 11:00 am (Rome time).

To apply, you will need to submit:

• your CV;
• a short project idea;

Your application will be assessed by UniTE, and you will receive feedback on the outcome within approximately one week.

If selected, you will take part in the UniTE MSCA PF Support Programme, designed to help you prepare a strong and competitive proposal. The programme includes:

• a proposal writing Masterclass (20 May and 26 May);
• two proposal review rounds with dedicated feedback.

Final step: with UniTE’s full support, you will submit your MSCA PF proposal through the official European Commission portal, guided throughout the process by the UniTE MSCA Desk.

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