PhD: Small Druglike Molecules for Modulating Protein-Protein Interactions

Are you passionate about drug development and curious about how molecules can fight diseases? Do you want to contribute to breakthrough technologies that modulate protein-protein interactions in cells? If so, join the Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry as a PhD candidate!

We aim to develop new drug development technology based on the design and synthesis of a unique class of molecules to modulate the so-called protein-protein interactions in the cell. Protein-protein interactions are very common in metabolic pathways and their malfunctioning leads to diseases. Using computer modelling, and by synthesising unique compound libraries and screening for biological activity, new druglike molecules will be developed that may form the basis for future drugs.

As a PhD candidate on this multidisciplinary project, your main task will be to develop new and efficient synthesis routes to novel classes of small molecules that can interfere with protein-protein interactions. You will closely collaborate with other project partners on several aspects of early-stage drug discovery, including molecular modelling, scale-up of strategic building blocks, automated library synthesis, assay development and screening for biological activity.

In addition to conducting research, your PhD position will include other training activities, such as participation in teaching (10%). This involves assisting with lab courses, as well as supervising and training Bachelor's and Master's students as part of your own research project.

Profile

• You have an MSc degree in chemistry or in a related molecular science programme.
• You have excellent knowledge of organic reactions and extensive experience with the design and synthesis of small molecules.
• You have preferably used your synthesis skills in medicinal chemistry projects.
• You are enthusiastic about conducting research and capable of overseeing complex multidisciplinary problems.
• You have excellent communicative skills and are a team player.

We are

You will be working at the Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, which is part of the Institute for Molecules and Materials. Our research activities encompass a broad range of topics, including the development of new sustainable synthesis methods, research into new click reactions and their application to unravel biochemical pathways, and the design and synthesis of biologically active molecules for medicinal chemistry purposes. In all these areas, the synthesis of complex organic molecules plays a crucial role. The Institute for Molecules and Materials is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and hosts a wide variety of analytical and spectroscopic equipment required to execute the research. The research project will be carried out in collaboration with the Drug Discovery Lectorate of HAN University.

Radboud University

At Radboud University, we aim to make an impact through our work. We achieve this by conducting groundbreaking research, providing high-quality education, offering excellent support, and fostering collaborations within and outside the university. In doing so, we contribute indispensably to a healthy, free world with equal opportunities for all. To accomplish this, we need even more colleagues who, based on their expertise, are willing to search for answers. We advocate for an inclusive community and welcome employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Will you also contribute to making the world a little better? You have a part to play.

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science (FNWI), part of Radboud University, engages in groundbreaking research and excellent education. In doing so, we push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.

We seek solutions to major societal challenges, such as cybercrime and climate change and work on major scientific challenges, such as those in the quantum world. At the same time, we prepare our students for careers both within and outside the scientific field.

Currently, more than 1,300 colleagues contribute to research and education, some as researchers and lecturers, others as technical and administrative support officers. The faculty has a strong international character with staff from more than 70 countries. Together, we work in an informal, accessible and welcoming environment, with attention and space for personal and professional development for all.

We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) of 1,5 years, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, your contract will be extended by 2.5 years (4-year contract).
• You will receive a starting salary of €2,872 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, which will increase to €3,670 in the fourth year (salary scale P).
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus.
• You will be able to use our Dual Career and Family Support Service. The Dual Career Programme assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands. Our Family Support Service helps you and your partner feel welcome and at home by providing customised assistance in navigating local facilities, schools, and amenities. Also take a look at our support for international staff page to discover all our services for international employees.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

Additional employment conditions

Work and science require good employment practices. Radboud University's primary and secondary employment conditions reflect this. You can make arrangements for the best possible work-life balance with flexible working hours, various leave arrangements and working from home. You are also able to compose part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, exchange income for extra leave days and receive a reimbursement for your sports membership. And, of course, we offer a good pension plan. We also give you plenty of room and responsibility to develop your talents and realise your ambitions. Therefore, we provide various training and development schemes.