PhD Student in Structural Mass Spectrometry of Oligonucleotides and Therapeutic Applications
The Biophysical and Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Laboratory at the University of Geneva is recruiting for a project on the structural mass spectrometry of oligonucleotides and their therapeutic applications.
The position is primarily advertised as a PhD opening, but exceptional postdoctoral candidates will also be considered. The research will focus on developing and applying advanced mass spectrometry methods to investigate oligonucleotide structure, higher-order structures, folding, chemical modifications, and fragmentation pathways. Particular attention will be given to therapeutically relevant oligonucleotides, while broader questions in nucleic acid structure and biophysics may also be explored.
The project combines native mass spectrometry, ion mobility spectrometry, and advanced fragmentation methods, offering access to state-of-the-art instrumentation including ion activation and ion spectroscopy. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary and international research environment and will have opportunities to present at international conferences and collaborate with academic and industrial partners.
Applicants should have a Master's degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field. For PhD applicants, the Master's degree must be completed before the start date; for postdoctoral applicants, a PhD must be completed before the start date. Strong motivation, a solid understanding of molecular structure and biomolecular folding, and excellent English communication skills are expected. Experience in mass spectrometry, native MS, ion mobility, oligonucleotide characterization, structural biophysics, molecular modelling, or data analysis is advantageous.
The position starts flexibly during 2027. Applications must follow the instructions in the provided form, include all required documents, and clearly specify the selected project. Incomplete or non-compliant applications will not be considered. Review begins after the application deadline, and shortlisted candidates may be invited to an online interview and possibly a final on-site interview. The post remains open until filled.
