PhD candidate in photoactivated chemotherapy

PhD candidate in photoactivated chemotherapy

Photoactivated chemotherapy (PACT) is a new form of phototherapy against cancer. In the frame of an Institute-funded programme dedicated to developing new photocages for cancer treatment, the group of Prof. Sylvestre Bonnet is looking for a chemist with proven experience in synthetic bioinorganic chemistry, photochemistry or photopharmacology, and/or chemical biology, to investigate the photocaging of amines. Do you have interest in photomedicine? Do you want your research to make an impact? Just apply and join the Bonnet group! Experience with photodynamic therapy, pancreatic cancer, and/or DFT modelling, are a plus.

Project description and responsibilities

The position entails the synthesis of new ruthenium-based photocages. You will be integrated in the MCBIM group and share responsibility of the chemical-biological part of the group, with involvement in the supervision of undergraduate students (BSc and MSc) and teaching tasks at the institute level (supervision of practicum and exercise sessions). You will work in collaboration with the other members of the group and actively participate to group meetings.

Profile

You will have an MSc in chemistry, and proven experience with coordination chemistry and/or photochemistry. If possible, you will be familiar with photomedicine and cancer research. You are eager to collaborate with others and extend your network. Good English skills and a will to work in a multidisciplinary topic are a must.

Organisation

The chemistry and life science research in the Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) is organized around two major research areas: ‘Chemical Biology’ and ‘Energy & Sustainability’. The institute’s research themes illustrate the central position of chemistry between biology, medicine and physics. The various research topics carried out within these themes are ideal for executing interdisciplinary research.

The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelors’ and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and over 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

Leiden University is one of Europe’s leading international research universities. Thanks to its committed and inspired employees, the university enjoys a leading role in academic research and education. Leiden also scores very well every year in prominent rankings. This means that, to maintain our position, the bar is set very high. Regardless of the work you do at our university, you are always encouraged to broaden your horizons, develop your talents and reach your full potential. Will you become our newest colleague?

We offer

The planned starting date is at the end of 2025. We offer a one-year position with the possibility of extension for a further three years based on performance and following the pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. Salary ranges from € 2.901,- gross per month in the first year to € 3.707,- gross per month in the fourth year based on a full-time position (38 hours).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside The Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

Diversity and inclusion

Fostering an inclusive community is a central element of the values and vision of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.

Contact

Do you have questions about this position? Please contact Yvonne Snellenberg, secretary of professor Sylvestre Bonnet, snellenbergy@chem.leidenuniv.nl, +31 71 5274450.

Applications

Are you enthusiastic about this vacancy? We are looking forward to get to know you. Please ensure that you include the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:

• A letter of motivation including research interests and highlighting fit for the position (max. 2 pages)
• An updated curriculum vitae
• Relevant certificates (e.g. degree certificate) in English language
• Contact details of two persons who can be contacted for reference

Only applications received before August 31, 2025 will be considered.