Doctoral position (100%) in Natural Product Biosynthesis & Bioengineering University of Basel in Switzerland

The University of Basel's Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences is a leading Academic Drug Discovery & Development Center, offering comprehensive coverage of academic drug research from pre-clinical to clinical phases. The Pharmaceutical Biology Group is seeking two motivated PhD students to join Prof. Robin Teufel's research group, which specializes in elucidating natural product biosynthetic pathways and the underlying enzymology. The research will focus on the biosynthesis of bacterial aromatic polyketide natural products with antibiotic and anticancer properties, as well as the characterization and engineering of the involved enzymes. These efforts aim to produce natural product derivatives as potential lead compounds, in collaboration with partners working on synthetic approaches.

Through this project, you will gain insights into the complex catalytic mechanisms of key biosynthetic enzymes, contributing to a deeper understanding of natural product structural diversification. The research environment is based at the Pharmacenter in Basel, a hub for pharmaceutical research, offering state-of-the-art instrumentation and infrastructure. The group is multidisciplinary, comprising pharmacists, chemists, and biologists, and provides excellent opportunities for internal and external collaborations.

Applicants should have a master's degree in pharmaceutical biology, (bio)chemistry, enzymology, structural biology, or microbiology. Experience and interest in natural product research and enzymology are essential. Additional skills in molecular biology, structural biology/X-ray crystallography, protein design, natural product analysis (LCMS, NMR), microbial genetics, and bioinformatics are advantageous. Fluency in English at C2 level is required. As a doctoral researcher, you will also assist master students and participate in teaching activities.

The position offers a generous salary and full funding, along with supportive mentoring and the opportunity to enjoy the high quality of life in Switzerland. To apply, submit your application online via the official portal, including a brief cover letter, CV, and contact details of two referees. Only applications submitted through the portal will be considered. For general inquiries, contact Prof. Robin Teufel at [email protected].

Join a vibrant scientific community at the University of Basel and advance your career in natural product biosynthesis and bioengineering.