Unlocking the Secrets of Chemical Exposure Through Hair Analysis
Are you passionate about impactful research that bridges analytical chemistry, environmental science, and public health? Do you want to develop cutting-edge techniques that contribute to a healthier future? Join our dynamic and interdisciplinary research team at the Department of environmental sciences, where we explore how chemical exposures shape human health.
Why is this research important?
We are surrounded by thousands of chemicals every day – through food, air, water, and consumer products. Many of these chemicals, whether voluntary (e.g., medication, diet) or involuntary (e.g., pollution, contaminants), have been linked to serious health effects, including hormonal disorders, immune dysfunction, and even cancer. Research has shown that exposure to chemical mixtures influences health outcomes even more than genetics. Despite this, studying these exposures remains a huge challenge.
Traditionally, urine and blood samples are used to monitor chemical exposure, but they only provide a short-term snapshot. Hair, however, offers a unique advantage: it can capture exposure history over weeks or months, providing a more comprehensive view of long-term chemical accumulation in the body. This is an exciting and rapidly growing research field with real-world applications in environmental health, toxicology, and public policy.
What will you be doing as a PhD researcher in our team?
- You will develop an innovative analytical method for non-targeted screening of chemical exposures in hair samples;
- Use high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify biomarkers of exposure;
- Explore how hair analysis can complement traditional biomonitoring (urine, blood) for a more holistic understanding of exposure;
- Work in an interdisciplinary environment, collaborating with experts in analytical chemistry, toxicology, epidemiology, environmental science, data science and clinical research.
- Contribute to major European initiatives focused on health and environmental sustainability.
- Make a real impact – your research will not only advance scientific knowledge but also inform policymakers and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-3: Good Health & Well-being, SDG-12: Responsible Consumption & Production).
Who are we looking for?
We seek a motivated, curious, and reliable PhD candidate eager to learn and contribute to groundbreaking research. You should be flexible, open to interdisciplinary collaboration, and excited about working in a fast-paced, cutting-edge scientific environment.
About us
Our young and dynamic research group at the Mass spectrometry centre consists of experts in pharmacy, chemistry, biomedical sciences, data science, and biotechnology. We work in a state-of-the-art mass spectrometry laboratory and are part of international collaborations that push the boundaries of environmental health research.
If you’re ready to be part of a project that matters, develop advanced analytical skills, and make a lasting impact on science and society, we’d love to hear from you!