PhD Position: Small Druglike Molecules for Modulating Protein-Protein Interactions - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

1. Introduction

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!

2. Job description

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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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. 

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to Prof. Floris Rutjes. In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application.

The first interviews will take place on 21 October. Any second interview will take place on 28 October. You will preferably start your employment on 1 January 2025.

We can imagine you're curious about our application procedure. It describes what you can expect during the application procedure and how we handle your personal data and internal and external candidates.