PhD Position in Carbohydrate-Based Synthesis & Assay Development

The Molecular Pharmacy group at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences is focused on early stages of drug discovery, including target identification and validation, the design, screening, characterization and optimization of molecules with drug-like properties, and the development of novel therapeutic concepts. The group follows a highly integrated and multidisciplinary approach, including drug design, compound synthesis and characterization, protein engineering, target preparation, assay development, and interaction analyses.
A 4-year PhD position is available from July 1, 2025 in the Molecular Pharmacy group. The project will incorporate multidisciplinary techniques to develop novel carbohydrate-based therapeutics. Research activities will involve the chemical synthesis of carbohydrate-based molecules ('glycomimetics'), protein production, and assay development using a diverse platform of techniques available to the Molecular Pharmacy team. The candidate will learn and develop proficiency in both chemistry and molecular biology techniques, and will collaborate closely with other members of our multidisciplinary team.
Main project responsibilities include:

• design & synthesis of carbohydrate-based molecules ('glycomimetics')
• characterization of intermediates & products using 1D and 2D NMR, MS, and other techniques
• protein engineering & protein production
• bioassay development (e.g., nanoDSF, SPR, MST, ITC)
• conducting routine maintenance and troubleshooting of lab equipment
• support of day-to-day organizational and safety aspects of a laboratory
• compiling and presenting results, and writing reports
• training and supervision of junior researchers (lab courses, MSc students, internships)

Candidates should hold an MSc degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline from a recognized institution. Candidates should enjoy working in a team environment, and proficiency in English is expected.
The position is funded for 4 years; salaries are according to the guidelines of the University of Basel. The workplace is based at the Pharmazentrum of the University of Basel, a well-equipped and innovative workplace with teams researching various aspects of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Application / Contact
 
Applications must be submitted via the online portal and should include:

• motivation letter
• detailed CV
• short description of previous research/laboratory experience (<2 pages)
• contact details for two references

 
Applications will only be accepted through the online University of Basel application portal. All applications submitted before April 23, 2025 will be considered, otherwise the position will remain open until filled.
 
For any additional enquiries, please contact: Dr. Rachel Hevey ([email protected])