100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The Research Group for Peptide-Based Drug Discovery (Prof. Nathalie M. Grob) at ETH Zürich, in collaboration with Novo Nordisk in Copenhagen, Denmark, is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated PhD candidate for a joint project. We are offering a full-time (100%) PhD position for individuals with a strong interest in peptide chemistry, mass spectrometry, and modern drug discovery to establish an innovative platform for peptide drug discovery.
Peptides are essential modalities for developing new therapeutic avenues. To address unexploited targets and provide alternative strategies for established disease pathways, discovering bioactive peptides presents a fundamental challenge. This project aims to develop novel technologies for hit identification and validation, focusing on high experimental throughput and success rates.
The four-year project is co-funded by Novo Nordisk and will be supervised by Prof. Nathalie Grob (ETHZ), in cooperation with Novo Nordisk. This offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of academia and industry, leveraging cutting-edge technology to make a real-world impact in peptide drug discovery. Short research visits (3 months) at the Novo Nordisk research site in Copenhagen and access to high-throughput instrumentation are planned throughout the project. Prior experience in peptide synthesis, mammalian tissue culture, and mass spectrometry would be advantageous.
Candidates will be expected to integrate into a multidisciplinary team while efficiently balancing independent work with collaborative exchanges and discussions. The project will encompass chemical synthesis of peptides, experimental development of drug discovery technologies, and biophysical and cellular evaluation of bioactivity.
The ideal candidate will hold a recently completed MSc degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Biology, Cellular Biology, or related disciplines, and possess experience in several of the following areas:
A successful applicant will be passionate about science and collaboration, demonstrating a strong motivation and intrinsic interest in drug discovery and development. Effective communication in English is required as it will be the working language in a multidisciplinary environment.
Additionally, the candidate must be available to start by 01 October 2025, possess authorization to work in Switzerland, and be able to travel to Denmark for short-term projects (under 3 months) without needing additional permits.
Join us at ETH Zurich, where your professional development is supported, and contribute to a sustainable and climate-neutral university. Enjoy numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension packages.
In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about our commitment to a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
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Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland