Postdoctoral Researcher in Peptide Binder Discovery and Synthetic Antibodies at Leiden University Leiden University in Netherlands

Leiden University is advertising a postdoctoral position for the development of synthetic antibodies, focused on peptide binder discovery at the interface of peptide therapeutics, nanomedicine, and therapeutic antibodies.

The project is a collaboration between the Barz Lab and the Pomplun Lab at Leiden University, within the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR). It is funded by the prestigious NWO VICI grant awarded to Prof. Matthias Barz.

The successful candidate will discover and develop high-affinity peptide binders for therapeutically relevant receptors, establish robust peptide discovery workflows, and develop bioconjugation methods for attaching peptides to defined nanoparticles.

Applicants should hold a PhD in peptide discovery and have a strong background in display technologies (phage or mRNA display) or generative computational design, ideally both. Peptide synthesis experience and computational skills are appreciated. The role also calls for a strong publication record, creativity, scientific curiosity, interdisciplinary teamwork, and excellent English communication skills.

The appointment is full-time for up to two years, with an initial 12-month contract and the possibility of extension. Salary is listed at €3,546–€5,538 gross per month depending on experience.

Applications must be submitted online via AcademicTransfer by 31 May 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV with publication list, transcripts, and two references.