PhD Position in Medicinal Chemistry and Peptide Ligand Development
Design and synthesize novel peptide-based allosteric ligands targeting membrane channels at Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Best for:Best for chemistry and biomedical graduates with a strong background in organic synthesis, peptide design, and experimental research.
Overview
The Vrije Universiteit Brussel is offering a multi-year doctoral grant within the Department of Chemistry and the Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences. The successful candidate will focus on creating innovative peptide-based allosteric ligands capable of binding to membrane-bound proteins and channels, followed by thorough in vitro and in vivo therapeutic evaluations. Alongside independent research tasks, the PhD student will contribute to supervising bachelor's and master's students within an interdisciplinary environment. Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master's degree and demonstrate a strong foundation in experimental chemistry or biomedical sciences.
What you'll do
- Design and synthesize bioactive, peptide-based ligands including custom amino acids.
- Participate in collaborative discussions regarding molecule design and optimization.
- Conduct in vitro and in vivo evaluations to assess the therapeutic potential of synthesized molecules.
- Contribute to the supervision and guidance of bachelor's and master's students.
- Collaborate across multiple research groups with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in science, (bio)medical sciences or an equivalent course of study
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent command of both spoken and written English is essential
Instruction: English
Publications: Publications in international peer-reviewed journals are an advantage but not strictly mandatory at entry.
- Demonstrated experience in experimental research
- Proficiency in organic or peptide synthesis
- Strong command of both spoken and written English
- Ability to work effectively across multiple research groups
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Must not have performed works in the execution of a mandate as an assistant, paid from operating resources, over a total cumulated period of more than 12 months
- (Non-)EEA nationals must meet conditions for obtaining a valid Belgian work/residence permit for VUB
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-15
Interested candidates must submit their application file through the online VUB jobs portal by the specified deadline. The application must include a detailed CV, a motivation letter, and your diploma. Selected candidates will be invited for subsequent interviews.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Diploma
Contact
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