PhD Position: Peptide Formulations Radboud University in Netherlands

This PhD position at Radboud University focuses on advancing peptide formulations through the design and analysis of next-generation functional peptide systems. The project is based in the interdisciplinary Robotlab, where automation, advanced synthesis, and data-driven workflows are leveraged to explore the vast space of peptide sequences and formulation protocols. Peptide-based systems are increasingly important as building blocks for therapeutic modalities and bio-based materials, and this research aims to develop targeted approaches using automation and machine learning to navigate complex experimental datasets.

As a PhD candidate, you will work at the frontier of peptide science, formulating and characterizing functional peptide systems relevant for biomedical applications such as delivery platforms and regenerative therapies. The research involves advanced peptide synthesis, automated analytical techniques, and collaborative work with data science and machine learning experts. Experimental validation and iterative refinement are key components, opening pathways to innovative biomedical solutions.

The project is exploratory and adaptable, embedded within the collaborative Robotlab environment. You will have access to a personal budget for joint activities with Robotlab partners across the Netherlands and opportunities to disseminate your work through publications and presentations at conferences. Up to 10% of your time will be spent contributing to Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes, with further professional and academic training available.

Applicants should have or be about to obtain a Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, molecular life sciences, or a related field. Experience in physical organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, systems chemistry, peptide chemistry, and analysis of peptide-based materials is required. Programming skills (preferably Python) and affinity with machine learning or computational statistics are desirable. The ideal candidate is proactive, collaborative, and communicates effectively in English within a multicultural environment.

The position offers a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) for 1.5 years, extendable to 4 years upon positive evaluation. The starting salary is €3,059 gross per month, rising to €3,881 in the fourth year, with additional benefits including holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, extra leave days, flexible working hours, sports/cultural discounts, pension plan, and personal development budget. The Mabesoone lab, part of the Big Chemistry Robotlab team, integrates robotics and AI into chemistry and is embedded within the Big Chemistry National Growth Fund consortium.

Radboud University’s Faculty of Science is internationally oriented, with staff from over 70 countries, and offers a welcoming environment for personal and professional development. The university is committed to groundbreaking research, high-quality education, and fostering an inclusive community. Applications should be submitted online, addressed to Dr Mathijs Mabesoone, with interviews scheduled for 12 June and 22 June. The application deadline is 31 May 2026, and the preferred start date is as soon as possible.