PhD position in Supramolecular Chemistry/Peptide Chemistry

Are you curious about how life started on our planet? Are you fascinated by dynamic self-assembling processes? Are you interested in the design of bioinspired peptide-based materials? As a PhD student, you will aim to understand how primitive catalysts and functional membranes interact with one another. You will work at the Institute for Supramolecular Science and Engineering (ISIS, Strasbourg, FR), a world-renowned institute in supramolecular chemistry and (bio)engineering.

You will design a liposome-directed selection strategy to synthesise peptides capable of catalysing key prebiotic processes and changing the properties of the supramolecular environment within which they are synthesised. You will develop skills in bio-organic, systems and supramolecular chemistry applied to primitive cells. Your work will also focus on the chemical and biophysical characterisation of peptide-functionalized liposomes.

The small size of our young group ensures close supervision and training while you embark on the path to becoming an independent researcher. In addition, the project offers interactions with other groups in Strasbourg, with the possibility to perform research periods abroad in our collaborators' laboratories (Germany, UK, US, Canada or Australia).

Candidate Profile: You must have an MSc degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering or other relevant subjects. You should show a strong interest in multidisciplinary research, be motivated and have a good work ethic. You should be keen on learning new skills and expertise and be able to interact with other researchers with complementary scientific backgrounds in order to boost the project outcomes. Skills in (bio)organic and peptide synthesis, or liposome characterisation are preferred but not required.

How to apply: Send a CV and a motivation letter (why are you interested in this position?) to bonfio@unistra.fr mentioning “PhD recruitment - Supramolecular/Peptide Chemistry” in the subject. In addition, please provide at least one letter of recommendation. The deadline for application is June 5th, 2022.