About this role
Within the ERA4Health Project RELIABLE, the group of Prof. dr. Matthias Barz at the Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research (LACDR) seeks a postdoctoral researcher in synthetic polymer chemistry and formulation science. Join a collaboration with Université Claude Bernard Lyon, Hospices Civils de Lyon, University of Parma, and Curapath to develop orally applicable mRNA therapeutics for chronic gut inflammation. Employ state-of-the-art techniques to create novel polypept(o)ides, lipopolymers, and formulations thereof.
Develop novel polymeric materials based on polypept(o)ides for nucleic acid formulations that modulate immune cells in vivo to control inflammation or induce antitumoral responses. Synthesize and characterize polypeptides, di- or tri-block copolypept(o)ides, and lipopolypept(o)ides. Advance formulation development using techniques like microfluidics alongside monomer synthesis and in vitro/in vivo evaluations.
Work at the Faculty of Science, Leiden University, within LACDR's division of BioTherapeutics, a centre of excellence for drug discovery and development. Engage in a multidisciplinary project combining chemists, physicists, biologists, and clinicians in a dynamic international environment. Benefit from state-of-the-art infrastructures and top-20 QS rankings in Pharmacology and Pharmacy.
Operate at the forefront of therapeutic immune modulation using nanomedicines. Contribute to innovative concepts in fundamental and translational research for personalized medicines. Strengthen (inter)national collaborations bridging clinical and industry applications.
Requirements
- PhD in synthetic chemistry, polymer chemistry or materials science with strong background in polymer or organic synthesis, ideally polypeptides by NCA polymerization
- Knowledge in materials characterization (light scattering, SEM/TEM, AFM)
- Well-founded chemical expertise with keen interest in application of material science to biological evaluation and therapeutic needs
- Ability to independently plan and execute research tasks within an interdisciplinary project combining chemists, physicists, biologists, and clinicians
- Team player capable of creative thinking
- Excellent command of the English language with strong communication skills
- Highly motivated
Responsibilities
- Synthesize and characterize polypeptides, di- or tri-block copolypept(o)ides, and lipopolypept(o)ides
- Develop formulations using state-of-the-art techniques, e.g., microfluidics
- Synthesize monomers (amino acids)
- Evaluate systems in vitro and in vivo with respect to encapsulation chemistry, particle composition, and surface modification
- Develop novel polymeric materials based on polypept(o)ides for nucleic acid formulations
- Modulate immune cells in vivo to control inflammation or induce antitumoral responses
Benefits
- Full-time (1.0 FTE) position for 2 years and 2 months
- Starting date as soon as possible
- Dynamic international environment at world-class Faculty of Science, Leiden University
- Access to state-of-the-art expertise and infrastructures at LACDR
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