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PhD Student
Ph.D. student position in Computational Glycobiology and Biophysics Full-time NEW
We have an open position for a Ph.D. student to join the recently established Computational Glycobiology team at the National Centre for Biomolecular Research (NCBR), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic.
We apply multiscale molecular simulations to investigate the structure, dynamics, and function of glycans and their interactions with proteins, lipid membranes, and polymer materials. Our work aims to elucidate how glycans influence key biological processes, including cell signaling, immune responses, and disease development. The research is performed in close collaboration with multiple experimental groups across Europe.
The proposed project focuses on the molecular modeling of bacterial peptidoglycan using advanced free energy methods, genetic algorithms, and machine learning approaches, in order to understand its structural and functional roles in antibacterial drug resistance and to inform the design of new therapeutics. The research is supported by the Czech Science Foundation and provides access to modern computational infrastructure and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The position is available with a preferred start date in late summer / early fall 2026 (flexible for the right candidate) and include:
- A four-year doctoral study program (Biomolecular chemistry and bioinformatics) combining a scholarship + salary that is funded by a grant at least until the end of 2028. Additional supplementary funding may be available through the Czech Science Foundation and other sources, subject to availability. Additional support includes funding for professional development, international mobility, and conference attendance, as well as performance-based bonuses. Employment also includes full social security and public health insurance coverage in accordance with Czech national legislation.
Required skills and qualifications for a Ph.D. Student:
- Master’s degree in Biophysics, Physics, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field (required at the time of enrolment in the Ph.D. program).
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. Knowledge of Czech is not required; however, language courses will be offered to support integration.
- High level of commitment to successfully complete the Ph.D. program.
- Prior training or experience in programming (e.g., Python) and molecular simulations (e.g., GROMACS) is an advantage.
Motivated students with an interest in computational biophysics, physical chemistry, and glycobiology are strongly encouraged to apply.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
More about the Ph.D. program: https://www.sci.muni.cz/en/studies/doctoral-degree-study-programme/
More about the PI: https://www.ncbr.muni.cz/en/research/researchers/denys-biriukov
Brno is ranked among the Europe’s best student cities: https://www.thecampusadvisor.com/best-of/50-Best-Student-Cities-in-Europe-2024/Ranking/112
Why study in Brno: https://www.study-in-brno.cz/why-study-in-brno
Czechia is one of the safest countries in the world: https://www.visionofhumanity.org/maps/#/