Postdoctoral position in protein design and synthetic biology for brain delivery

at IQS - Ramon Llull University in Barcelona . At ChemSynBio ( www.chemsynbio.iqs.edu ), we harness chemical and synthetic biology to create protein therapeutics and biomedical tools, especially addressing brain tumors. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of next-generation biomedical tools and/or targeted therapies for brain diseases within a collaborative and stimulating research environment. Research lines Brain cancers remain among the deadliest malignancies, largely because therapeutic molecules fail to reach their targets in the brain and often lack sufficient selectivity for tumor cells. Our laboratory is tackling these challenges through two complementary research programs that bridge fundamental and translational science: engineering new strategies to understand and enhance the transport of biologics across the blood-brain barrier, and developing protein and peptide therapeutics that are activated specifically within diseased tissues to probe the tumor microenvironment and exploit its unique features for selective targeting. To achieve this, we integrate computational protein design, bioinformatics, chemical biology, synthetic biology, and experimental validation in cellular and animal models. This work is supported by the European Research Council (ERC), Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer (AECC), Agencia Estatal de Investigación (AEI), and Fundació “la Caixa”. Tasks Develop a project and contribute to other lab projects. Close collaboration with other researchers. Contribution to an inspiring atmosphere and engagement in team activities. Student supervision and preparation of scientific publications. Prepare competitive applications for postdoctoral fellowships. Conditions The position is initially funded for two years, with the expectation that the candidate will apply for prestigious postdoctoral fellowships. The group will provide active mentoring and support throughout the process. Training opportunities and international conference attendance. Space for creativity, with dedicated mentorship and team support. Possibility to supervise PhD and MSc students. Proposed starting date: flexible Requirements PhD degree in a degree related with life sciences. Specific Requirements Valuable experience - not everything is expected: bioinformatics, protein design, protein engineering, chemical biology, synthetic biology, cell biology, animal handling. Proactivity, creativity, and strong motivation to pursue & publish high impact research. Excellent teamwork abilities and communication skills in English. Strong publication record and international mobility. Languages: ENGLISH — Level: Good Additional Information Benefits Training opportunities and international conference attendance. Space for creativity, with dedicated mentorship and team support. Possibility to supervise PhD and MSc students. Proposed starting date: flexible Eligibility criteria Applications should include: Motivation letter explaining why you would be a good fit for the position and team. Two reference letters or contact details of two referees. Curriculum Vitae Selection process Stage 1: Shortlisting of candidates based on the documentation provided. Stage 2: Interview with the PI. Stage 3: Final interview with the Selection Committee. Additional comments We are an equal opportunity employer . We promote equality and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law. We strongly welcome applications from female candidates as they are currently under-represented at this level in this field of knowledge in our School. We also promote scientific and technological knowledge, business transformation and societal progress . At IQS we look for professionals committed to both these values.