Madeline E. Kavanagh
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Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Covalent Drug Development for Emerging Cancer Targets Leiden University in Netherlands
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Salary between €3706 and €5760 gross per month based on a full-time 38-hour appointment, plus holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, and commuting reimbursement. Initial contract is for 6 months and may be extended if additional funding is obtained and performance is satisfactory.
Deadline
Nov 20, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Leiden University
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About this position
This postdoctoral project at Leiden University focuses on covalent small-molecule inhibitor discovery for emerging cancer targets. The work is rooted in chemical proteomics and drug discovery for proteins involved in immune-oncology that are considered challenging to address with conventional small molecules.
The successful researcher will develop and optimize electrophilic lead compounds, then design bifunctional analogues intended to induce protein degradation. The role combines synthetic and medicinal chemistry with selectivity profiling and early functional testing, including chemoproteomics and cell-based or biochemical assays. The aim is to generate chemical tools that help validate novel cancer targets and provide leads for later-stage drug development.
The position is embedded in the Leiden Institute of Chemistry and the broader Leiden Bioscience Park environment. The group is described as interdisciplinary and collaborative, with access to synthesis capabilities and a research setting connected to the Faculty of Science. The project is supervised by Madeline E. Kavanagh, Assistant Professor of Chemical Biology.
The researcher will join a team working on targeted covalent inhibitors and chemical biology methods in a strong international research environment.
Funding details
Salary between €3706 and €5760 gross per month based on a full-time 38-hour appointment, plus holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, and commuting reimbursement. Initial contract is for 6 months and may be extended if additional funding is obtained and performance is satisfactory.
What's required
Doctorate level required. Candidates should be a proficient synthetic/medicinal chemist able to design and troubleshoot synthetic routes. Prior experience in enantioselective synthesis and covalent/electrophilic functional groups is advantageous. Prior experience in small molecule drug development, SAR studies, physicochemical property optimization, and functional characterization of inhibitors in cell-based, biochemical, or biophysical assays is preferred/optional. Applicants should demonstrate commitment to rigorous scientific standards, accurate record keeping, data management, time management, ability to work independently, and the ability to write and present research in English, supported by prior publications, theses, or presentations.
How to apply
Apply via the AcademicTransfer application page. Submit a short motivation letter explaining why you apply and why you are suitable, a CV including your PhD title/date, PhD supervisor name, and any prior postdoctoral/research positions, and at least two reference letters from current and prior managers.
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Professors
Assistant Professor of Chemical Biology at Leiden University
Netherlands
Research Interests
Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Chemical Biology
Structure-activity Relationship
Medical Science
Biology
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.