PhD Position in Photocatalysis for biomodification

Antibody-drug conjugates have the advantage that they can target and treat cancer more efficiently without harming healthy cells. However, the preparation of such bioconjugates is often cumbersome and lead to mixtures of compounds which are essentially inseparable. In this research project, innovative methods are being developed which can prepare such bioconjugates fast and selective with the use of light. The project is in collaboration with Prof. Tom Grossmann (VU Amsterdam) and will be highly collaborative.

What are you going to do

We expect you to:

• Be active in organic synthetic chemistry and have an interest in photocatalysis (photoredox, energy transfer or HAT). You should also be interested in flow chemistry;
• Publishing in high level international journals, presenting at leading conferences and supervising MSc and BSc students;
• Be open to collaborations with other institutes and/or companies by presenting your work to these collaborators and to transfer the technology to the company;
• Knowledge on peptide and protein bioconjugation chemistry is a plus.

What do we require

• An MSc in chemistry;
• The ability and willingness to work in an interdisciplinary team;
• A strong desire to work with the newest technologies, e.g. flow chemistry or automation technology;
• Motivated to solve challenging research questions;
• Being a team player;
• Strong knowledge in written and spoken English;
• A strong desire to work with the newest technologies, e.g. flow chemistry or automation technology.

Knowledge, skills and experiences which are a plus (pre) are mentioned separately from the summary in a sentence.

Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week, preferably starting on January 1, 2023, for the duration of four years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended to a total duration of four years). This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and Masters students. 

Based on a full-time contract (38 hours per week) the gross monthly salary will range from € 2,541.- in the first year to € 3,247.- (scale P) in the last year. This is exclusive 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

The UvA offers excellent possibilities for further professional development and education.

What else do we offer

• A function in which initiative is strongly valued;
• An enthusiastic team that welcomes new members;
• An inspiring academic and international environment in the heart of Amsterdam.

About us

The Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is one of eight institutes of the University of Amsterdam (UvA) Faculty of Science (FNWI). HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research, curiosity driven as well as application driven. This is done in close cooperation with the chemical, flavour & food, medical and high-tech industries. Research is organized into four themes: Analytical Chemistry , Computational Chemistry , Synthesis & Catalysis and Molecular Photonics .

The Flow Chemistry Group’s mission is to expand the available chemical space by embracing technology to the fullest extent. The aim of the Flow Chemistry group (a.k.a. the Noël Research Group) is to build bridges between chemical engineering and organic synthetic chemistry. Consequently, long-standing problems in synthetic chemistry can be overcome, which includes scalability, gas-liquid reactions, photochemistry, electrochemistry and the generation and use of hazardous reagents. This allows us to effectively expand the available chemical space by bringing overlooked or avoided reagents into play.

To work at the University of Amsterdam is to work in a discerning, independent, creative, innovative and international climate characterized by an open atmosphere and a genuine engagement with the city of Amsterdam and society. Here you can read more about working at the University of Amsterdam .

Questions

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:
•    Prof. Dr. Ing. Timothy Noël
•    T: +31 20 525 8367

Job application

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by November 1, 2022 . You can apply online by using the link below.  

We will recruit until a suitable candidate is found and close the vacancy thereafter.

Applications in .pdf should include:
•   A motivation letter and CV, including a list of publications.

Please mention the months (not just years) in your CV when referring to your education and work experience.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please.