Engineered anti-CD20-scFv expressing cellular membrane derived nanovesicles

In recent years, extracellular vesicles have attracted considerable interest as drug delivery systems due to their high biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and natural ability to transport bioactive molecules between cells. However, the therapeutic application of natural extracellular vesicles is hindered by their low secretion rates, heterogeneity, and limited targeting capabilities. To overcome these challenges, this project focuses on the development and comparative evaluation of three types of vesicles: engineered nano plasma membrane vesicles (nPMVs), natural extracellular vesicles (EVs), and extracellular vesicles derived from apoptotic cells (ApoEVs). Each vesicle type will be functionalized to display an anti-CD20 single chain variable fragment (scFv) on their surface, facilitating targeted delivery to CD20-overexpressing cells. Through this comparative approach, we aim to identify the vesicle type best suited for targeted therapy and to demonstrate that cell membrane engineering is a versatile and effective strategy for incorporating targeting moieties into membrane-derived nanovesicles, thereby enhancing their potential as precision drug delivery platforms.

Suitable for Pharma, Drug Sciences and maybe Nanosciences

Development of Probiotic Xyloglucan Matrix Tablets for Targeted Delivery of Live Bacteria to the Colon

Project start: June 2025 or later

Project location: Institute of Pharma Technology, FHNW Muttenz

Details

Formulation Optimization of 3D-Printed Pediatric Tablets Using Semi-Solid Extrusion

Project start: June 2025 or later
Project location: Institute of Pharma Technology, FHNW Muttenz

Details

Nuclear import enhancement of DNA-Lipid Nanoparticles by NLS-peptides in vitro

The delivery of nucleic acids, particularly episomal DNA for long-term transgene expression, represents a promising strategy in gene therapy. While viral delivery systems have demonstrated efficiency, their application is often hindered by challenges such as high production costs and immunogenic responses. As a result, non-viral carriers, such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), have garnered significant interest as an alternative. Despite their potential, research on DNA as an efficient cargo for LNPs remains limited. One key challenge lies in the poor intracellular delivery efficiency of DNA-LNPs, primarily due to insufficient translocation of DNA from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. This project aims to evaluate a novel strategy for enhancing the nuclear import of DNA-LNPs through the co-encapsulation of nuclear localization signal (NLS) peptides, potentially overcoming existing delivery barriers.

Details

Pharmazeutische Forschung

We can offer for year 2026 a Master's thesis in cooperation with partners from Toyama University in Japan: https://www.u-toyama.ac.jp/en/outline/.

The thesis is carried out in Japan and supervised by scientists there. Various topics are offered in the fields of pharmaceutical biology, pharmacology and technology.

Formulation development of recombinant adeno-associated viruses used as gene delivery systems - NO LONGER AVAILLABLE

The pharmaceutical market is currently transforming and advanced medicinal products (ATMPs) are entering the market. These comprise among others delivery systems such as viral vectors and specifically include recombinant adeno associated virus (rAAVs).

However, clinical and commercial rAAV products are currently stored at frozen state (e.g., -80°C) due to their limited stability when stored under refrigerated conditions for extended periods. For instance, Luxturna® and Zolgensma® are stored at -80 °C and their shelf-life is still limited to a duration of one year.

The aim of the Master thesis is to develop a formulation platform for rAAV products enabling storage at 2-8°C omitting the costly freeze/thaw supply chain, while maintaining product integrity, purity and effectiveness. The formulation platform will comprise a screening system capable of evaluating diverse combinations of viral vector concentrations, of suitable stabilizing excipients including pH/buffer systems, and other variables that influence the stability of rAAV products. The project will use various established analytical techniques including cell culture experiments to test the formulations.

The Master thesis project will start in March - July 2025 with a duration of 8-12 months in cooperation with the pharmaceutical company ten23 health.

Experiments will be performed both at the University of Basel (Pharmazentrum) as well as at the ten23’s labs at Rosenthal campus (Mattenstr. 22) in Basel

Apply here.

Master’s Thesis in Pharmaceutical Development (8 months) - NO LONGER AVAILLABLE

As our Masters’ Student you will actively participate in critical scientific research to develop solutions for real-world pharmaceutical & clinical problems benefitting the patients and caregivers. You will be guided by one of our experts to contribute to various aspects and challenges of pharmaceutical development. The role will predominantly include laboratory work with commitment of time and effort for the project. You are also expected to devote time for scientific literature reading and to produce/write self-review documents that would support your dissertation process. For further information please read here.

Porous microcapsules for the use of pediatric drug delivery - NO LONGER AVAILLABLE

We have designed a novel multifunctional inorganic carrier for oral drug delivery. These microcapsules allow for the establishment of a platform technology for the formulation development of child-friendly orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) which are currently tested in a clinical setting.

Theoretical Master’s Thesis in Pharmaceutical Development (8 months)- NO LONGER AVAILLABLE

The theoretical Master thesis will conduct research at the interface between pharmaceutical drug product manufacturing of biologics and sustainability considerations. As Master’s thesis candidate, you will actively participate in critical scientific research to develop solutions for real-world pharmaceutical & clinical problems benefitting the patients and caregivers. You will be guided by one of our experts to contribute to various aspects and challenges of Pharmaceutical development. You are expected to devote time for scientific literature reading and to produce/write self-review documents that would support your dissertation process. For further information please read here.