Nanoparticles as Emerging Therapeutics in the Fight Against Superbugs 26-27 S1

This course explores the critical intersection between nanotechnology and infectious pulmonary diseases. The program is divided into two phases:

1. Theoretical Phase (5 weeks): In-depth study of nanocarriers (liposomes, polymeric, lipid nanoparticles…), aerosol physics, and pulmonary biological barriers (mucus, macrophages). A special focus is placed on the pathophysiology of bacterial biofilms and resistance mechanisms.
2. Seminar Phase (3 weeks): “Journal Club” sessions and project presentations where students design innovative nanotechnological solutions to address real-world clinical challenges. The course adopts a “research-led teaching” approach, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge concepts derived from current doctoral research.

UNITS

1. Nanotechnology Fundamentals: Comprehensive classification of nanocarriers (Liposomes, Polymers, Lipid and Metallic NPs), their synthesis, and specific physicochemical properties.
2. Pulmonary Delivery Systems: Mechanisms of lung deposition (impaction, sedimentation, diffusion), aerosol physics, and technical operation of nebulizers, DPIs, and pMDIs.
3. Overcoming Biological Barriers & Biofilms: Impact of the mucus layer, macrophage evasion, and the pathophysiology of bacterial biofilms in the context of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
4. Smart Design & Clinical Translation: Stimuli-responsive release, targeted therapies, nanotoxicology, and regulatory pathways from lab research to clinical applications.

Timetable:

2-hour synchronous sessions every Friday for 8 weeks (16 contact hours total).

The remaining 14 hours are dedicated to asynchronous self-study and project preparation.

• EUNICE students enrolled in one of the universities of the EUNICE European University consortium (check universities here).
• Good command of the English language: B2 level.
• Basic background in microbiology, biochemistry, or pharmacology.

Study Level: Master, PhD

• Submit your application via the button ‘Apply Now’.
• Please keep in mind that the number of participants could be limited for each course. Application does not guarantee enrolment in the course.
• The course participants will be selected based on criteria specified in the study guide.
• Your home university will inform you whether you have been accepted and provide further information about the next steps.

Specific instructions in some universities

• BTU students: a Learning Agreement must be completed in advance in coordination with your departmental advisor. Please contact your examination office and study programme coordinator in good time once you are accepted for the courses you would like to attend. For any other questions you can contact: eunice@b-tu.de
• UPHF students: make sure to ask the approval of your director of studies (responsable pédagogique) before applying. For any question, you can contact the EUNICE office: eunice@uphf.fr
• UoP students: for questions about enrolment and recognition please consult  the responsible person at your university (Director of Studies or ECTS coordinator) or contact eunice@go.uop.gr

Any questions about enrolment or credit recognition? Contact your EUNICE courses coordinator.