Development of nanoformulations based on natural and modified clays (halloysite and hectorite) for controlled essential oil delivery

Position: Research appointment (pre-doc) Institute: Uni. Catania
New! Posted on: 11/02/2026 Deadline: 03/03/2026

Scientific-Disciplinary Group

03/CHEM-05 - Organic Chemistry

Description

The research activity focuses on the development of advanced nanoformulations based on natural clays, with particular emphasis on halloysite and hectorite, within WP4 of the EONANOBIOPS project. The researcher will be specifically dedicated to the design and preparation of nanoparticulate systems based on both pristine and modified clays for the encapsulation and controlled release of essential oils for agro-biological applications. Activities will include chemical and physicochemical surface modification of clays, , and physicochemical characterization of the resulting nanoformulations in terms of particle size, stability, and release profiles. Special attention will be devoted to optimizing clay structural and surface properties to enhance adhesion to plant surfaces, increase persistence of activity, and reduce environmental impact. This position will serve as the scientific reference within UNICT for all methodologies related to halloysite and functionalized clay-based systems

Number of positions

1

Maximum duration

12.0

Funding body

Università degli Studi di Catania

How to apply

Other