PhD Position in Deep Learning for Kinase Drug Discovery (ANA-KIN)

Leiden University invites applications for a 4-year PhD position (Doctoral Candidate 10) within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network ANA-KIN, focusing on computational drug discovery. The project centers on designing deep learning architectures that integrate text-mined, cheminformatic, and biophysical descriptors to predict interface binding, allosteric signatures, and resistance liabilities of kinase ligands. The successful candidate will work within the Computational Drug Discovery group at the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, collaborate closely with international network partners, and complete two research secondments in Belgium. Key expectations include conducting original research, open-sharing models following FAIR principles, participating in network training events, and writing a doctoral dissertation.

• Conduct original and novel research in deep learning, artificial intelligence, and cheminformatics applied to kinase drug discovery.
• Develop, benchmark, and openly share models, datasets, and decision-support dashboards adhering to FAIR and open-science principles.
• Collaborate closely with experimental and computational doctoral candidates across the ANA-KIN network.
• Complete two international research secondments at partner institutions in Belgium (VIB and Skylight Therapeutics).
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed international journals and present research at scientific conferences.
• Participate actively in network-wide training events, summer schools, workshops, and educational activities.
• Write and successfully defend a doctoral dissertation.