Postdoctoral Researcher in Peptide-Based Drug Discovery
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The research group for Peptide-Based Drug Discovery (Prof. Nathalie M. Grob) is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for a collaboration with the research group for Drug Formulation & Delivery (Prof. Jean-Christophe Leroux). This fully funded project by Innosuisse will run for 18 months and focuses on the investigation of targeted drug delivery. The work will encompass affinity-based peptide discovery, peptide chemistry, bioactivity profiling through advanced cellular experiments, proteomics, and microscopy.
Job Description
The successful candidate will:
- Collaborate with experts in protein engineering and drug delivery on an innovative research challenge.
- Utilize their expertise in designing structure-based peptide ligands and peptide conjugates.
- Develop affinity-based screens employing combinatorial peptide libraries.
- Synthesize, purify, and characterize peptides and peptide conjugates.
- Evaluate the application of *de novo* approaches for hit discovery.
- Investigate the bioactivity of synthesized compounds using biophysical and cell-based assays.
- Contribute to teaching and supervising junior researchers in the group.
Profile
We are looking for a candidate with a genuine interest in peptide therapeutics, a passion for drug discovery and development, and the ability to integrate effectively into a multidisciplinary team through collaborative engagement and discussion.
Requirements:
- PhD in Chemical Biology, Peptide Chemistry, or Pharmaceutical Sciences.
- Strong expertise in the (solid-phase) synthesis of peptides and peptide conjugates, purification, and analytical characterization.
- Experience with proteomics or peptide sequencing by mass spectrometry.
- Proficient in bioactivity profiling using biophysical methods such as fluorescence polarization, surface plasmon resonance, biolayer interferometry, isothermal titration calorimetry, or similar techniques, as well as cellular assays.
- Knowledge of bioinformatics and programming is advantageous.
- Experience in structure-based design or generative models is a plus.
- First-author publication(s) in peer-reviewed journals relevant to the profile (published or submitted).
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
- Ability to collaborate on a multidisciplinary team, independently develop a research project, and meet defined milestones.
The candidate must be able to start the project by 01.03.2026.
Workplace
Located in Zurich, the workplace offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research community.
We Offer
- Collaborative project: Engage in close collaboration between two leading academic groups (Drug Formulation & Delivery and Peptide-Based Drug Discovery).
- Your career with impact: Join ETH Zurich, an institution that supports your professional development while contributing positively to society.
- Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, access to a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare provisions, and attractive pension benefits.
We Value Diversity and Sustainability
ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture, promoting equality of opportunity, valuing diversity, and nurturing a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core principle at ETH Zurich, and we are continuously striving for a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
We look forward to receiving your application. Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich attracts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we are dedicated to developing solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.