Ruth Brenk

Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Structural Biology and Structure-Based Drug Design at the Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Norway. This full-time, three-year postdoctoral position is part of the eHACS project, financed by the Research Council of Norway, with the possibility of extension to four years subject to additional funding. The successful candidate will join the Brenk lab, which works in structure-based drug design, and contribute to experimental evaluation of designed compounds against the targets FabF, PanK, and NMT. The project combines protein expression and purification, binding studies using label-free biophysical methods, biochemical enzyme assays, and crystallographic analysis of protein-ligand complexes to guide compound design. Key responsibilities include protein expression and purification, ligand-binding determination using methods such as BLI, SPR, or GCI, enzyme activity assays, crystal structure determination of target-ligand complexes, and structure-guided analysis to support medicinal chemistry and compound optimisation. The role is well suited to candidates with a strong background in structural biology and drug discovery-oriented experimental methods. Eligibility requires a Norwegian PhD or equivalent degree in structural biology, or a doctoral thesis submitted before the deadline, with the PhD awarded no later than five months after the closing date. Applicants must have relevant hands-on experience with label-free biophysical methods for small-molecule binding, protein-ligand structure determination in a structure-based drug design context, and protein expression/purification of at least one of the named targets. Strong written and spoken English is required; experience with biochemical activity assays is an advantage. The university also emphasises independence, structured working style, and teamwork. The appointment is based in Bergen, at the University of Bergen, and offers salary at NOK 690,000 in the state salary scale, alongside pension enrolment and welfare benefits. The deadline for applications is 30 September 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Oslo). Applicants must submit a motivation statement, transcripts and diplomas, proof of the submitted doctoral thesis, a complete publication list, full copies of selected publications, and two references.