PhD and Postdoctoral Positions in Supramolecular Chemistry and Chemical Biology at ICIQ Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia in Spain

PhD and Postdoctoral Positions in Supramolecular Chemistry and Chemical Biology at ICIQ

The Escobar Group at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), Tarragona, Spain, is announcing upcoming openings for a PhD student and a postdoctoral researcher. The research sits at the interface of supramolecular chemistry, chemical biology, and organic synthesis, with a strong focus on hybrid oligomers, host-guest systems, and synthetic-biological scaffolds.

PhD project: The PhD topic is Self-assembly of hybrid synthetic-biological systems for fundamental studies and biomedical applications. The project involves designing and developing hybrid oligomers that combine synthetic and biological scaffolds, especially host-guest systems with nucleic acids and peptides. The work includes synthesis, characterization, studying fundamental properties and functions, and proof-of-principle biomedical applications. The PhD duration is 4 years, with a starting date in October 2026. The call is expected to open in May 2026.

Postdoctoral project: The postdoctoral position focuses on Hybrid oligomers based on synthetic and biological scaffolds for fundamental studies and biomedical applications. The postdoc will synthesize and characterize hybrid systems based on synthetic host-guest complexes and biological oligomers such as oligo(deoxy)nucleotides and oligopeptides. The project also explores self-assembly, secondary structure formation, stability, and biomedical applications such as biomarker sensing and drug delivery. The duration is 3 years, with a starting date around September-October 2026. The call is expected to open in April-May 2026.

Eligibility highlights: For the PhD, applicants should have a Master’s degree in Chemistry or a closely related field, strong English skills, and familiarity with routine characterization techniques. For the postdoc, applicants should hold a PhD in Chemistry or a related field, have less than 3 years of previous postdoctoral experience, and bring expertise in multistep organic synthesis, chromatography, spectroscopic techniques, and related areas such as supramolecular chemistry or chemical biology. Strong publication record and the ability to work independently are emphasized.

How to apply: Formal applications must be submitted through the ICIQ careers portal. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Luis Escobar by email with a CV and motivation letter before applying.

Institution: Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), Tarragona, Spain.

Funding: No stipend or salary details are provided in the post.