1. Formulation of an Innovative Bigel-Based Dermo-Cosmetic for Acne Treatment

Background

Acne is one of the most common skin diseases, affecting adolescents and adults alike. Conventional topical formulations, such as hydrogels and organogels, often suffer from limitations including skin irritation, dryness, redness, prolonged treatment periods, and an unpleasant oily skin feel.

In collaboration with Macon GmbH, our institute is developing a novel bigel-based dermo-cosmetic formulation containing probiotic particles for acne treatment. The technology combines the moisturizing properties of hydrogels with the enhanced skin penetration of organogels, aiming to inhibit acne-causing bacteria, strengthen the skin barrier, and reduce side effects while lowering the required concentration of active ingredients.

As no commercial acne treatment based on bigel technology currently exists, this project offers the opportunity to contribute to the development of an innovative next-generation dermo-cosmetic product.

Objective

Develop and optimize a novel bigel formulation by investigating different gelling agents, solvents, and manufacturing conditions, followed by comprehensive material characterization.

Tasks

• Review the scientific literature on hydrogels, organogels, and bigels.
• Develop and optimize bigel formulations using different compositions and processing conditions.
• Characterize the materials using advanced analytical techniques, including in-situ Rheonics viscometry, particle imaging and tracking, and FTIR spectroscopy.
• Evaluate different laboratory-scale manufacturing methods.
• Analyze, document, and present the experimental results.

Profile

• Independent and motivated working style
• Interest in laboratory research and data analysis
• Interest in biomaterials and dermo-cosmetic product development

Start: Summer Semester 2026

Supervisor
Dr. Laila Abu-Farah
Institute of Process Systems Engineering
Böblinger Str. 78, 70199 Stuttgart
Room 3.008
Email: laila.abu-farah@svt.uni-stuttgart.de

Examiner
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Natalie Germann

2. Real-Time FTIR-Guided Optimization of Lignin–Chitosan Grafting

Background

The replacement of fluorinated polymers (PFAS) in food-contact coatings requires sustainable bio-based materials that combine excellent barrier properties, chemical resistance, and processability. Lignin–chitosan copolymers represent a promising alternative, combining the hydrophobicity of lignin with the film-forming ability and antimicrobial properties of chitosan.

However, current grafting approaches suffer from limited reproducibility and slow reaction kinetics. A systematic understanding of the reaction mechanisms, kinetic limitations, and solvent effects is still lacking.

This thesis addresses this research gap by developing an in-situ FTIR-based methodology to monitor and optimize lignin–chitosan grafting reactions in real time.

Objective

Investigate how solvent selection, mixing strategy, and temperature influence grafting kinetics and reaction pathways using real-time FTIR (ReactIR) spectroscopy.

Tasks

• Review the literature on in-situ FTIR spectroscopy and polymer reaction monitoring.
• Identify the dominant grafting mechanisms from FTIR spectra.
• Quantify reaction kinetics and conversion under different operating conditions.
• Determine process conditions that enable rapid and reproducible grafting.
• Analyze, document, and present the experimental results.

Profile

• Independent and analytical working style
• Background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering
• Interest in laboratory research and data analysis

Start: Summer Semester 2026

Supervisor
M.Sc. Ayumi Schober
Institute of Process Systems Engineering
Böblinger Str. 78, 70199 Stuttgart
Room 3.003
Email: Ayumi.Schober@svt.uni-stuttgart.de

Examiner
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Natalie Germann