PhD Position: Cellular Uptake of Peptide-Based β-Catenin Inhibitors
Explore peptide-based drug design to enhance cellular uptake of β-catenin inhibitors for cancer therapy research.
Best for:Best for chemistry graduates with a strong background in synthetic chemistry, computational modeling, and molecular biology, interested in drug design and cancer research.
Overview
This PhD position at the Technical University of Vienna focuses on developing peptide-based inhibitors targeting the oncogene β-catenin, with a specific emphasis on improving their cellular uptake. As part of the MSCA Doctoral Network (FlexCAT-DN), the successful candidate will synthesize and analyze peptidomimetics to optimize molecular weight, polarity, and flexibility for efficient membrane crossing. The project integrates synthetic chemistry, computational modeling, and biological assays, including fluorescence polarization and reporter gene assays. The position offers structured doctoral training, international networking, and opportunities for secondments to academic and industry partners, contributing to a broader program on flexible and disordered protein targets for therapeutic development.
What you'll do
- Design and synthesize over 100 peptidomimetics to systematically probe structure/uptake relationships.
- Conduct fluorescence polarization assays and TOPFLASH reporter gene assays to evaluate β-catenin binding and cellular uptake.
- Perform NMR conformational studies and molecular dynamics simulations to analyze molecular interactions.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams for computational analysis, disease modeling, and β-catenin interactome studies.
- Present research findings at international conferences and engage in scientific dissemination and outreach activities.
- Participate in international doctoral training programs and secondments to academic and industry partners.
- Develop an individual career development plan and complete transferable skills courses.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Chemistry or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent proficiency required
Instruction: English
- Proven experience in synthetic organic chemistry, preferably peptide synthesis
- Familiarity with biochemical assays, including fluorescence polarization and reporter gene assays
- Basic knowledge of molecular modeling and computational techniques
- Excellent proficiency in written and spoken English
- 1–4 years of research experience in a relevant field
- Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in Chemistry or a related field
- Open to international applicants under MSCA mobility rules (residency restrictions apply)
- No age limit, but research experience between 1–4 years preferred
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-31 (Europe/Vienna)
Applicants must submit their application through the official PhD recruitment portal of the Medical University of Graz, linked in the application details. Ensure your application includes a CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, and contact details for two referees. The application must be completed in English and submitted before the deadline.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Two reference letters
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
Anne Conibear· Assist. Prof.
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