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Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
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PhD Position in Radiopharmaceutical Sciences: Claudin-targeted radiotheranostic peptides for precision imaging and therapy of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma Autonomous University of Madrid in Spain
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
Spain
University
Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
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About this position
This PhD project sits within the CLAUDIN-RT programme at the Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sols-Morreale, a joint research environment of the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. The project is rooted in radiopharmaceutical sciences and precision oncology, developing peptide-based radiotheranostic tools for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), one of the most lethal cancers.
The research aims to create next-generation peptide radioligands that target claudin-4 and claudin-18.2, two tight-junction proteins that are highly relevant in PDAC. One part of the project focuses on rational redesign of the C-terminal fragment of Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin as a scaffold for claudin-4 targeting, using structural and computational modelling to improve binding, specificity, and pharmacokinetics. The second part uses phage display and computational analysis to discover selective high-affinity peptide ligands for claudin-18.2.
The selected peptides will be prepared for radiolabelling and assessed in vitro for binding and biological activity in PDAC cells. Promising candidates will then move into preclinical in vivo models to evaluate tumour targeting, retention, imaging performance, and therapeutic potential. The project combines peptide engineering, molecular design, and nuclear imaging in a translational setting aimed at generating new molecular vectors for precision imaging and therapy.
The student will work in an interdisciplinary cancer-research environment that bridges computational design, peptide chemistry, molecular imaging, and preclinical testing, with the goal of advancing claudin-targeted radiotheranostics for improved patient stratification and personalized treatment.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold a Master degree or equivalent in Biological sciences, Chemistry, Pharmacological sciences, or Medical sciences. Required experience includes cell culture, histology, flow cytometry, ELISA, PCR, Western blotting, optical and fluorescence microscopy, generation of murine cancer models, and use of GraphPad, ImageJ, and Microsoft Office. Accredited English language proficiency is required, along with Spanish at a good level. Specific desirable/required training includes laboratory animal use (categories A-C), experience in phage display-based ligand selection, and handling of unsealed radioactive sources.
How to apply
Apply through the UAM online application system using the official application page. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the PI beforehand to discuss suitability and for help with the application system.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.