Javier Montenegro

The Montenegro Research Group at CIQUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Supramolecular and Organic Chemistry. This opportunity is part of the ERC Synergy project “Covalent Chaotropic Membrane Transport for Biotherapeutic Delivery” (CARAMEL), which aims to develop innovative strategies for the membrane transport of impermeable bioactive molecules. The project is led by Professor Javier Montenegro and involves collaboration with leading researchers across Europe, including Prof. Werner Nau (Constructor University, Germany), Prof. Paola Luciani (University of Bern, Switzerland), and Prof. Oliver Hantschel (Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany). The successful candidate will focus on organic and peptide synthesis, contributing to the development of chaotropic peptide tagging strategies, systematic transport screening, and the synthesis and validation of functional chaotropic biomolecular hybrids. The research will move beyond classical amphiphilic design principles, utilizing (super)chaotropic boron cluster anions as membrane carriers to facilitate biotherapeutic delivery. The project offers a multidisciplinary environment, access to state-of-the-art infrastructure at CIQUS, and opportunities for international research stays in the laboratories of consortium partners. Applicants must hold both a Bachelor's and Master's degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, or related disciplines, and meet the requirements for admission to the PhD program at the University of Santiago de Compostela for the academic year 2025/2026. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills, the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, and English proficiency at B2 level or higher. Previous holders of predoctoral contracts in a PhD program are not eligible. Applications must include a motivation letter, CV with explicit academic records (grades and average marks), and contact information for at least one referee. The position offers a full-time contract (35 hours per week) for up to 4 years, with salary and social security benefits according to Spanish national regulations. Additional benefits include access to advanced research facilities, collaboration in a dynamic team, and participation in European projects and consortia. The application deadline is 1 February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview, with selection based on academic performance, research experience, motivation, and alignment with project goals. For further information, visit the CIQUS website or the official position link. To apply, email your application materials to [email protected] before the deadline.