Ralf Jockers

This is a fully funded PhD opportunity in the interdisciplinary field of photopharmacology and medicinal chemistry, focusing on the study of GPCRs and mitochondrial receptors. The research will be conducted in collaboration between the Institut Cochin (Université Paris Cité, France) and the IQAC-CSIC (Barcelona, Spain), offering a double diploma option. The project centers on the design, synthesis, and cellular characterization of photoactivatable compounds for light-controlled drug activation and receptor regulation, with a high level of spatiotemporal precision. The work will involve computational design, chemical synthesis, molecular and cellular characterization, and advanced cell signaling assays such as BRET. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field, with a strong background in synthetic or medicinal chemistry. The ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and strong English communication skills are essential. Experience with computational chemistry, cell culture, and molecular biology techniques is advantageous. The successful candidate will split their research time between the Llebaria lab in Barcelona and the Jockers lab in Paris, gaining expertise in both chemical and biological aspects of photopharmacology. The program is designed for candidates interested in innovative drug design, GPCR biology, and the development of new therapeutic approaches for diseases such as diabetes and circadian/sleep disorders. The application deadline is 27 February 2026, with an expected start date in October 2026. To apply, candidates should submit a CV, motivation letter, and reference letters to the supervisors. This opportunity is ideal for students seeking advanced training in medicinal chemistry, photopharmacology, and interdisciplinary biomedical research, with the added benefit of a double diploma from leading European institutions.

A PhD position is available in the field of photopharmacology, focusing on the intersection of medicinal chemistry and cell biology. The project is a collaboration between the groups of Ralf Jockers at Institut Cochin, Université Paris Cité (France), and Amadeu Llebaria at the Medicinal Chemistry and Synthesis group (MCS), Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Barcelona (Spain). The research will involve the design and synthesis of photoactivatable melatonin ligands, photochemical characterization, and cellular studies on mitochondrial MT1 receptors, integrating organic synthesis, computational design, and cellular assays. The successful candidate will conduct chemistry research in Barcelona (Llebaria Lab) and biology research in Paris (Jockers Lab), with the opportunity to obtain a double diploma from both institutions. The project is ideal for candidates with a strong background in synthetic or medicinal chemistry and an interest in interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry, biology, and pharmacology. Key research areas include photopharmacology, GPCRs, mitochondria, organic synthesis, computational design, and cellular assays. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in chemistry or a related field, strong experience in synthetic or medicinal chemistry, and a good command of English. The position is set to start in October 2026, and the application deadline is February 27, 2026. To apply, candidates should send their CV, motivation letter, and references to [email protected]. For more information, candidates may refer to the LinkedIn announcement or contact the supervisors directly. This opportunity offers a unique international research experience in two leading European cities, working on cutting-edge topics in photopharmacology and medicinal chemistry, with potential applications in drug design and cellular biology.