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 looking for a full-time (100%) PhD Student with a strong interest in peptide chemistry, mass spectrometry, and modern drug discovery to establish an innovative platform for peptide drug discovery.
Peptides are privileged modalities for the development of new therapeutic avenues. To address unexploited targets and offer alternative therapeutic strategies on established disease pathways, the discovery of peptides with bioactivity is a fundamental challenge. This project focuses on developing novel technologies for hit identification and validation, aiming for high experimental throughput and success rate.
The four-year project is co-funded by Novo Nordisk and will be supervised by Prof. Nathalie Grob (ETHZ) in cooperation with Novo Nordisk, offering 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. Candidates with prior experience in peptide synthesis, mammalian tissue culture, and mass spectrometry will have a significant advantage.
The successful candidate will integrate into a multidisciplinary team, efficiently combining independent work with collaborative exchange and discussions. The project will include:
The ideal candidate will hold a recently completed MSc degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Biology, Cellular Biology, or related disciplines, with experience in several of the following areas:
A successful applicant will be passionate about science and collaboration, demonstrating a strong motivation and an intrinsic interest in drug discovery and development. The candidate must be able to communicate effectively in English as the working language in a multidisciplinary environment.
The candidate must be able to start the project by 01 October 2025. Moreover, the successful candidate requires authorization to work in Switzerland and to travel to Denmark for short-term projects (under 3 months) without needing additional permits.
The successful candidate will join an innovative research environment at ETH Zurich, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and impactful research.
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
We look forward to receiving your online application by 30 June 2025, which should include:
Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university a place that promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland