ESR1: Uppsala University, Sweden
Design and synthesis of chemically modified oligonucleotides and optimize the delivery formulation
The ESR1 will conduct original research that will involve developing chemically modified oligonucleotides with improved drug-like properties of RNA interference (RNAi) drugs. These modified nucleic acids will improve enzymatic stability of oligonucleotides in blood plasma as well as enhance gene silencing potential. The candidate will be involved in a European collaboration, conduct interdisciplinary research involving organic chemistry and cell and molecular biology, bioengineering, and 3D cell culture. The position includes research, training courses and exchange programs.
Profile: We are looking for enthusiastic candidates with MSc or equivalent background in organic chemistry or related fields. The candidate with experience in carbohydrate chemistry, nucleic acids chemistry, with hand on experience in solid phase oligonucleotide synthesis, purification and characterization of oligonucleotides will be considered advantageous. Experience in bioconjugation chemistry, NMR analysis, UV-Vis spectroscopy, HPLC and electrophoresis is appreciated.
The Department of Chemistry – Ångström Laboratory conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 200 employees and has a turnover of 200 million SEK. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. At the department’s six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering programs and master’s programs. More information is available on our website.
The ESR1 will be hosted at the ‘Translational chemical biology laboratory’ within the Polymer Chemistry division at the department. The candidate will work in an interdisciplinary environment involving organic chemists, biologist and clinical scientists. This will enable overall growth of the candidate with increased knowledge in an emerging field. The candidate will be trained to work independently, perform organic synthesis and characterize the materials with state-of-the-art techniques.
Terms of employment: The rules about PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§1-7 and the university’s rules and guidelines.