Postdoctoral Researcher / Postdoctoral Researcheress

Postdoctoral Researcher in Peptide-Based Drug Discovery

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The research group for Peptide-Based Drug Discovery, led by Prof. Nathalie M. Grob, is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for a collaboration with the Drug Formulation & Delivery group under Prof. Jean-Christophe Leroux. This fully funded project, supported by Innosuisse for 18 months, will focus on the investigation of targeted drug delivery through various cutting-edge techniques.

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 with combinatorial peptide libraries.
• Synthesize, purify, and characterize peptides and peptide conjugates.
• Evaluate the use of de novo approaches for hit discovery.
• Study the bioactivity of synthesized compounds through advanced biophysical and cell-based assays.
• Contribute to the teaching and supervision of junior researchers within 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 exchange and discussions.

Requirements:

• PhD in Chemical Biology, Peptide Chemistry, or Pharmaceutical Sciences.
• Profound expertise in the (solid-phase) synthesis of peptides and peptide conjugates, purification, and analytical characterization.
• Previous experience in proteomics or peptide sequencing by mass spectrometry.
• Hands-on skills in bioactivity profiling using biophysical methods (fluorescence polarization, surface plasmon resonance, biolayer interferometry, isothermal titration calorimetry, or similar) and cellular assays.
• Expertise in 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 within a multidisciplinary team, independently develop a research project, and meet defined milestones.

The candidate must be able to start the project by March 1, 2026.

Workplace

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at ETH Zurich, a leading institution renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to innovation.

We Offer

• Collaborative project: Experience a close partnership between two renowned academic groups (Drug Formulation & Delivery and Peptide-Based Drug Discovery).
• Your career with impact: Join ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• Attractive benefits including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports activities provided by ASVZ, childcare services, and competitive pension plans.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that values diversity and equality of opportunity. We strive to create 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 more about our commitment to fostering an open and fair environment for everyone. Sustainability is a core principle for us as we work towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Please ensure that your application includes:

• Motivation letter
• CV and publication list
• University degree, transcripts, and certificates
• Names and contact information of two referees

For additional information about the research group, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. Nathalie M. Grob at +41 44 633 74 57 or via email at sekretariat.grob@pharma.ethz.ch (please note, no applications will be accepted through this email).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is a world-leading university specializing in science and technology. Renowned for our excellent education and pioneering research, we are dedicated to translating knowledge into real-world solutions. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, we cultivate an environment that encourages independent thinking and excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections globally to address the challenges of today and tomorrow.