The Department of Quantitative Biomedicine at the University of Zurich is an interdisciplinary research unit that combines basic science with translational biomedical research. Within this environment, the Kümmerli lab investigates human bacterial pathogens and develops new antimicrobial strategies based on microbial interaction mechanisms. In close collaboration with the Department of Chemistry at the University of Zurich, in particular the group of Prof. Nina Hartrampf (flow chemistry and chemical biology), we are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to work on the chemical late-stage modification of iron-binding peptides for antimicrobial applications. The project is funded by Innosuisse and aims to develop enzyme-triggered antimicrobial prodrugs activated specifically by resistant pathogens.

• Design and synthesize modified iron-binding peptide conjugates.
• Develop and optimize conjugation strategies for enzyme-triggered activation.
• Purify and characterize compounds using chromatographic and mass-spectrometric methods.
• Evaluate enzymatic cleavage and activation in collaboration with microbiologists.
• Work closely with a microbial synthetic biology postdoc.
• Contribute to data analysis, manuscript preparation, and project reporting.

• PhD in organic chemistry, peptide chemistry, medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, or a related field.
• We are looking for a candidate with a strong interest in peptide-based therapeutics and chemical approaches to antimicrobial research, who enjoys working in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Strong hands-on experience in peptide synthesis, bioconjugation chemistry, purification, and mass spectrometry–based peptide characterisation.
• Prior experience with prodrug concepts or enzyme-triggered systems is an advantage.
• Ability to work independently, manage a research project, collaborate within a multidisciplinary team, and meet defined milestones.
• Interest in translational and antimicrobial research.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English is required.

Information on your application

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