The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense is offering a postdoctoral position in Organic Chemistry, focusing on the design and semi-synthesis of novel antibacterial agents. This opportunity is part of a Novo Nordisk Foundation project dedicated to the semi-synthesis of pleuromutilin derivatives as new antibiotics, with the goal of identifying compounds that specifically target multi-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. The research will involve introducing new modifications to the natural product Pleuromutilin using semi-synthetic approaches to generate derivatives with improved activity and decreased resistance potential. The successful candidate will join a Chemistry research group and work under the supervision of Professor Poul Nielsen. The position is available from March 1st, 2026, or soon thereafter, and is initially appointed for 12 months with the possibility of extension. Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or a related discipline, and must demonstrate strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including multi-step synthesis. Additional advantages include experience with medicinal chemistry principles, structure-activity relationships (SAR), antibacterial drug design, and purification and analytical techniques. Good interpersonal and communication skills in English are essential for effective interdisciplinary teamwork. This postdoctoral role offers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research in antibacterial drug design, with a focus on combating antibiotic resistance. The project is fully funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. For more information or to apply, candidates are encouraged to contact Professor Poul Nielsen at [email protected] and visit the official application link. The application deadline is January 21st, 2026.

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is seeking a postdoctoral candidate in medicinal chemistry. This position is part of a Novo Nordisk Foundation project focused on the semi-synthesis of pleuromutilin derivatives as new antibiotics. The research group aims to design and synthesize novel antibacterial agents, specifically targeting multi-resistant Gram-negative pathogens by introducing innovative modifications to the natural product Pleuromutilin. The project will utilize semi-synthetic approaches to generate derivatives with improved activity and reduced resistance potential. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry and demonstrate strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including multi-step synthesis. Essential skills include knowledge of structure-activity relationships (SAR), drug-property tuning (ADMET), and effective communication in English for interdisciplinary teamwork. Experience in antibacterial drug design or drug innovation and commercialization is advantageous. The position is available for 1.5 years and is fully funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research environment at SDU, collaborating with experts in medicinal chemistry and drug development. The application deadline is March 17th, 2026, with the position starting from April 1st, 2026 or soon thereafter. For more information, contact Professor Poul Nielsen at [email protected]. Interested candidates should apply through the official SDU job portal. This opportunity is ideal for researchers passionate about medicinal chemistry, antibacterial drug discovery, and interdisciplinary collaboration.