Plant-Derived Exosomes as Bio-Nanoplatforms for Antiviral Therapy and Vaccine Delivery: A Cross-Mediterranean Approach

Descriptif du sujet
Title :

Plant-Derived Exosomes as Bio-Nanoplatforms for Antiviral Therapy and Vaccine Delivery: A Cross-Mediterranean Approach

Description :

Plant-derived exosomes (PDEs) are nanovesicles naturally secreted by plant cells that have recently gained attention as biocompatible and eco-friendly nanocarriers for therapeutic molecules. Their potential for antiviral therapy and vaccine delivery remains largely underexplored, particularly for zoonotic and livestock viruses with substantial public health and economic implications. This project seeks to capitalize on the medicinal flora of Morocco and Greece to develop sustainable nanoplatforms capable of delivering antiviral drugs or antigens.

Research environment :

Candidates are expected to carry out their research full-time within the structures of EUROMED University

PhD student’s responsibilities :

The PhD candidate will contribute to the extraction, purification, and molecular/physicochemical characterization of PDEs obtained from selected medicinal plants. These vesicles will be bioengineered to encapsulate antiviral compounds or immunogenic antigens. In vitro assays will be conducted in laboratories in both Morocco and Greece to assess antiviral efficacy. Depending on preliminary results, pilot in vivo testing in animal models may be initiated in collaboration with the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II. The project aligns with the One Health vision by integrating human and animal health perspectives using sustainable biotechnology approaches

Candidate profile :

Master’s degree in molecular biology, biotechnology, pharmacy, or bioengineering. Prior experience in virology, cell culture, or nanoparticle characterization is highly desirable.

The application file must include the following documents :

CV, a cover letter, the PhD project, diplomas, and academic transcripts.

Submission of the application file :

The application file must be sent to the Doctoral Studies Center (CEDoc) of the Euro-Mediterranean University of Fes by email no later than October 24, 2025, to the following contacts:

Administrative Affairs Officer of the CEDoc: Mrs. Boutaina Jai Mansouri : : b.jai-mansouri@emadu.ueuromed.org)

Director of Research and of the CEDoc: Prof. Abdelghafour Marfak : : a.marfak@euromed.org)

Thesis supervisor :

• Pr. Hajar Chihab (h.chihab@ueuromed.org)

• Dr. Urania Georgopoulou (Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Greece)