Clément Cabanétos is seeking a fellow for MSCA PF 2026 in smart materials for photodynamic therapy

Organisation / Company Université d'Angers Department Direction de la Recherche - Cellule Europe Laboratory MOLTECH-ANJOU Is the Hosting related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

MOLTECH-Anjou is a joint CNRS–University of Angers research unit (UMR 6200) that brings together around 80 researchers, engineers, and doctoral students. The lab focuses on the design and synthesis of molecular materials, both organic and hybrid organic–inorganic, with tailored optical and electronic properties. Its research covers high-impact areas like organic electronics, biophotonics, stimuli-responsive materials, nanostructuring, and energy-related materials. MOLTECH-Anjou is structured in 5 teams combining expertise in theoretical and computational chemistry, synthesis, coordination chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science, and photonics

Presentation of the project

The project aims to develop a new generation of photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy (PDT), designed to autonomously activate within the unique microenvironment of cancer cells.

These molecules will feature original structural motifs that respond selectively (activation) to biochemical signatures such as elevated oxidative stress and hypoxic conditions, enabling precision activation directly at the disease site. This approach seeks to overcome major limitations of conventional PDT by reducing reliance on external light delivery and enhancing therapeutic efficacy in deep or poorly accessible tumors. The research integrates molecular design, organic chemistry, computational modeling, and photophysical characterization to optimize activation pathways, control excited-state dynamics and improve vectorization. Complementary studies in biological environments will evaluate selective accumulation, activation thresholds, and therapeutic outcomes.

By aligning with European priorities in advanced health technologies and smart therapeutic materials, the project strengthens interdisciplinary collaboration across chemistry, physics, and biomedical sciences. Ultimately, it aims to deliver highly selective, next-generation photosensitizers capable of initiating potent therapeutic effects precisely where they are needed, paving the way for more effective and minimally invasive cancer treatments.

Keywords

Next-generation photosensitizers - hypoxia-targeting molecules - photodynamic therapy - smart therapeutic materials - interdisciplinary molecular design

Applicants must comply with the mobility rule: having stay in France less than 12 months in the past 3 years before the 9th of September 2026. Applicants also must have maximum 8 years of research experience after graduating their (first) PhD.

A dedicated support programme will be offered to the selected fellow with online training, webinars, proofreading as well as a potential funding of mobility in Angers during 3 days for dedicated writing sessions.