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 developing new therapeutic avenues. To address unexploited targets and provide alternative therapeutic strategies on established disease pathways, discovering bioactive peptides is a fundamental challenge. This project focuses on developing novel technologies for hit identification and validation, aiming for high experimental throughput and success rates.
The four-year project, co-funded by Novo Nordisk, 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 and efficiently combine independent work with collaborative exchange and discussions. Responsibilities will include chemical synthesis of peptides, experimental development of drug discovery technology, and biophysical and cellular evaluation of bioactivity.
The ideal candidate will hold a recently completed MSc degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Biology, Cellular Biology, or related disciplines. Experience in several of the following areas is desirable:
A successful applicant will be passionate about science and collaboration, with a strong motivation and intrinsic interest in drug discovery and development. Effective communication in English is essential in this multidisciplinary environment.
The candidate must be available to start the project by October 1, 2025. Additionally, the successful candidate must have authorization to work in Switzerland and be able to travel to Denmark for short-term projects (under 3 months) without needing additional permits.
This position offers a collaborative project environment, providing the experience of working closely with both academic and industrial partners.
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunities, value diversity, and foster a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all 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 thrive.
We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below.
Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Nathalie M. Grob at Tel: or email Show e-mail.ch"> (no applications).
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 individuals from more than 120 countries find our university to be a haven for independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide, working together to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.
Location : Zürich
Country : Switzerland