Doctoral Student in Computational Chemistry

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Prof. Dr. Sereina Riniker's group for Computational Chemistry at the Institute of Molecular Physical Science is interested in the development of methodology for classical molecular dynamics simulations and cheminformatics, and in the application to address challenging biological and chemical questions.

Project background

The Doctoral Network MC4DD "MC4DD – Macrocycles for Drug Discovery", funded within the framework of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), follows an interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral approach by bringing together leading experts in macrocyclic drug discovery from academia and industry from the fields of organic synthesis, medicinal, high-throughput and computational chemistry, pharmacological and structural analytics, and modelling.

Eight academic research groups and five industrial partners, coordinated by Technische Universität Darmstadt in Germany, join forces in MC4DD to create a mobility and training platform for young scientists by means of cross-site, interdisciplinary research projects. The DCs will work on individual research projects to expand the opportunities of macrocycles as next-generation drug modalities.

More information can be found here .

Job description

Objectives: 

• Characterization of the structure-permeability relationship of macrocycles using molecular dynamics simulations and comparison with NMR data 
• Development of novel conformation- and environment-dependent 3D descriptors based on the MD simulations
• Development and refinement of machine learning models for permeability prediction for macrocycles

Secondments planned within the framework of the Doctoral Network:

• Roche, Switzerland, C. Kroll: Experimental determination of PAMPA permeability coefficients for macrocyclic library
• U. Uppsala, Sweden, M. Erdelyi: Conformational studies by NMR experiments
• Bayer, Germany, D. Barber: Conformational sampling of macrocycles

Preferred starting date: early 2025.

Profile

Applicants should hold a M.Sc. in chemistry, computational chemistry, or physics. Experiences with machine learning and/or biomolecular simulation, and strong programming skills (Python) are highly advantageous. Proficiency in English, good communication skills, and social competence are required.

We welcome self-motivated candidates with outstanding academic record, excellent communication skills and professional integrity to apply. 

EU Mobility Rule: Researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary >12 months in the 36 months preceding their recruitment date.

Workplace

Workplace

We offer

The project offers research and training excellence in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. The partners of MC4DD are leading research groups in this field and their research institutes actively promote young researchers. The 8 academic research groups and 5 industry partners join forces in MC4DD to create a platform of intersectoral and multidisciplinary mobility and training.

To complement the academic and scientific goals of the doctoral students, the project offers customized research projects, structured interdisciplinary local and network-wide transferable skills training activities, and secondments at top-ranking European universities and industry partners.

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application until August 31, 2024 with the following documents:

• Statement of interest
• Comprehensive CV and publication list
• Names and contact information of two references
• Copies of degree certificates and transcripts

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Computational Chemistry Group can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Sereina Riniker ([email protected]) (no applications!). 

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.