Ph.D. position Biopharmaceutical Investigations of Long Acting Injectable Suspensions

Project Overview A Ph.D. position within formulation characterization focused on biopharmaceutical investigations of long acting injectable suspensions is available in the Pharmacy Research Group at the Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Pharmacy. Long acting injectables (LAIs) are pharmaceutical products intended for weekly, monthly or even lower administration frequencies, providing continued drug release and steady exposure of the delivered compound. LAIs are typically administered intramuscularly (IM) or subcutaneously (SC) as oil solutions, in situ forming gels, microspheres, implants, micro- or nanosuspensions, with a focus on suspensions in this work. For individuals suffering from dysphagia or chronic disease where limited patient adherence may affect treatment efficacy, LAIs can provide a huge benefit. The incidence of chronic illnesses and dysphagia is growing in our ageing population, allowing many disease areas to benefit from constant drug delivery that LAI formulations may offer. LAIs have achieved considerable clinical success, particularly in the treatment of antipsychotic conditions. Since the 1960s, oil‑based parenteral depot formulations containing antipsychotics were introduced, and the micro‑ and nanosuspension technology has since advanced. Many recent LAIs are nano‑ or microsuspensions, making this technology highly relevant today. The common approach to manipulate the performance of LAI suspensions relies on changing the particle‑size distribution of the crystalline API. According to the Noyes‑Whitney equation, the dissolution rate is proportional to the total surface area of the drug particles. Correlations between particle size and in vivo release have been reported, and formulation aspects such as composition, flocculation level, API crystal morphology, and residual solvent can significantly affect dissolution and performance. This project aligns closely with Quality by Design (QbD) principles, emphasizing risk assessment, formulation understanding, and robust design‑space development. The Ph.D. student will systematically investigate the formulation impact on in‑vivo release of LAI suspensions in non‑clinical models, using the obtained data to generate a risk matrix for the in‑vivo impact of potential particle size variations. A successful outcome will provide pharmaceutical scientists with tools to understand the biopharmaceutical performance of LAI suspensions, supported by quality tools and physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling platforms. Responsibilities and Tasks The Ph.D. student will conduct research that includes formulation design of suspensions, particle‑size characterization, bioanalysis, and in‑vivo studies. The work will involve experimental design, data collection, risk assessment, and development of risk matrices to understand the impact of particle‑size variations on drug release. Qualifications We are looking for a candidate with a strong interest in pharmaceutical formulation and evaluation focused on formulation and characterization of suspensions. The candidate must hold an M.Sc. in pharmacy, chemistry, physics, or a closely related field. Previous experiences with formulation design of suspensions, particle‑size characterization, bioanalysis, or in‑vivo studies are considered an advantage. The candidate must be independent and fluent in English, both orally and written. For further information about the position please contact Professor René Holm at Starting Date 01 February 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. Other Information The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is one of four departments at the Faculty of Science, SDU and is located in Odense. Our interdisciplinary mindset, bridging physics, chemistry, and pharmacy, supports research and education recognized nationally and internationally. Read more about the Ph.D. program at the Department, and about the Ph.D. programme at the Faculty of Science on the university homepage. Appointment as a Ph.D. Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period (the 5+3 programme). The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background. Application Procedure Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following documents (three PDF files): A letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project (max. two pages). Detailed CV, including personal contact information and date entries. Copies of diplomas, Bachelor and Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades. Names and complete contact details (phone numbers and e‑mail) of at least two referees. Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will not be considered or evaluated. Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee, and applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university. Applications should be sent electronically via the link Apply now . The faculty expects applicants to read the information “How to apply for a position at SDU” before applying. The application documents should be in pdf format and attached as three documents: motivation letter, CV and the remaining documents. We recommend that international applicants visit Work in Denmark for information about moving, working and living in Denmark, and the International Staff Office at SDU for further details. #J-18808-Ljbffr