Two PhD Candidates/Students in Molecular Strategies for Anticancer Drug Delivery Full-time

Come to CEITEC MU in Brno and join us!

We are passionate chemists at CEITEC Masaryk University looking for

Two PhD Candidates/Students in Molecular Strategies for Anticancer Drug Delivery

About this position:

We are seeking two highly motivated PhD candidates with a strong interest in understanding chemotherapy at the molecular level. The project focuses on the development of molecular strategies for the delivery of anticancer drugs using macromolecular carriers.

The successful candidates will work at the interface of organic and inorganic synthesis, supramolecular chemistry (including capsules and cages), biovectorization, and the targeted delivery of metallodrugs. These interdisciplinary projects offer training in advanced synthetic and supramolecular methodologies within a collaborative research environment.

Our laboratory is equipped with modern synthetic facilities and has access to state-of-the-art supramolecular characterization techniques, including high-field NMR instruments available through our local core facility. In addition, we maintain strong and effective collaborations with the cancer institute, enabling translational perspectives for the project. The laboratory has secured substantial third-party funding and is therefore well positioned to fully support the successful candidates’ research.

Applicants with a background in chemistry or related disciplines and a strong interest in medicinal and supramolecular chemistry are encouraged to apply. We are seeking creative, independent, and highly motivated colleagues with relevant experience in areas such as synthetic organic or inorganic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, and biological chemistry. Candidates with expertise in metallodrugs, nanocages, or targeted chemotherapy are particularly encouraged to apply.

Reference:

S.S. Paul, J. Novotný, J. Jakubec, K. Petrláková, P. Jurček, K. Rašková, M. Kuchynka, M. Masařík, P. Kulhánek, R. Marek. Revealing the Effect of Host-Guest Complementarity in Supramolecular Monofunctional Platinum(II) Drugs. Inorganic Chemistry Frontiers, 2024, 11, 8510-8525. https://doi.org/10.1039/D4QI02012J.

Ideal candidate profile:

Must-have qualifications:

· MSc or equivalent degree (preferably in Chemical Sciences)

· Strong interest in organic or inorganic synthesis and supramolecular chemistry

· Hands-on experience with chemical synthesis, purification, and standard spectroscopic techniques

· Fluency in English (spoken and written)

Nice-to-have:

· Good communication and interpersonal skills

· High motivation and a collaborative mindset

What we offer:

· Open access to computational resources and CEITEC MU core facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and experienced staff

· Full-time PhD contract

· An attractive and competitive salary

· Flexible working hours

· Support for further education and professional development

· Benefits package: 6 weeks of paid holiday, medical insurance, financial contribution to meal and kindergarten/pension scheme, Multisport card, mental health care, sports lessons directly at the campus

· Daycare for children on Campus

· Support in these areas:

o Welcome Office service before and after arrival

o Grant Office support

o CEITEC PhD Committee

o CEITEC events – workshops, conferences, lectures, training, family gathering etc.

How to apply?

Application deadline: 28 February 2026

Start date: Flexible, ideally between May and October 2026

Interested candidates should submit their application via the online application portal. The application should include the following documents:

• A motivation letter describing your research interests and relevant experience

• A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)

• Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)

• Contact information for up to two academic referees

In case of any troubles with the e-application, please contact Petra Linhartová (petra.linhartova@ceitec.muni.cz).

Tagged as: Chemistry