Postdoctoral Position in Biotherapeutic Delivery

Constructor University (formerly Jacobs University)

Constructor University (formerly Jacobs University) is a private, state-accredited, English-language university in Bremen. We offer Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs in three schools: School of Science, School of Computer Science and Engineering, and School of Business, Social and Decision Sciences. Our principles are first-class teaching and research, international diversity, and transdisciplinary cooperation. According to the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Constructor University is among the top 25 percent out of more than 1900 universities worldwide and is ranked as the second most international university in the world. As an international university, we attract highly talented and open-minded students from all over the world. Currently, over 1,600 students from 110 nations live and study on our residential campus.

We are offering a Postdoctoral position in the Nau research group, to contribute to the innovative project CARAMEL Covalent Chaotropic Membrane Transport for Biotherapeutic Delivery, as a part of a dynamic international team embedded within a Synergy Grant funded by the European Research Council.

Starting date: 1st April 2026
Duration: A two-year full-time research contract, with potential extension

Project overview

The CARAMEL project aims to pioneer new synthetic strategies for modified boron clusters that interact with biological membranes, enabling efficient transport of therapeutics across these barriers. This interdisciplinary research combines organic synthesis, supramolecular chemistry, and membrane biophysics.

Job description

You will contribute to the following tasks within the project framework:
1. Design and perform multi-step synthesis of novel boron cluster derivatives, including purification and comprehensive structural characterization
2. Investigate their interactions with model cellular membranes, including liposomes of varied compositions, using physico-chemical techniques
3. Mechanistic studies of membrane transport, employing advanced fluores-ence-based assays

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated early-stage researcher with: 

• A PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field
• Strong expertise in synthetic chemistry and molecular characterization (NMR, LC-MS, HPLC, UV-vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy)
• Knowledge on supramolecular chemistry
• Hands-on experience in membrane transport studies would be advantageous
• Excellent communications skills in English, both written and spoken
• A collaborative spirit, strong organizational and time-managing abilities, and problem-solving skills

What you can expect at Constructor University:

Constructor University unequivocally guarantees the academic freedom of every member of the faculty, as well as every other member of the Constructor University community. We encourage diversity in the University in ethnic, cultural, social, religious, political, and national backgrounds, as well as in individual lifestyle. Constructor University offers full equality of opportunity to all qualified applicants and is an equal opportunity employer.

Constructor University consistently achieves top results in national and international university rankings.

In the CHE Ranking, the most comprehensive and detailed ranking of the German-speaking higher education landscape, Constructor University has achieved top placements every year since its first participation in 2005.

• The result counts: trust working hours for work-life balance
• Individual on-boarding, career- and development planning
• Company fitness program offers with EGYM Well Pass (former Qualitrain)
• Green campus with recreation areas, take the tour: Our Campus
• Constructor University has extensive programs on sustainability and environmental sustainability

How to apply

Submit a single PDF file (NameSurname.pdf) including: 

• A motivation letter highlighting your interest and appropriateness for the position
• Curriculum Vitae
• Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
• Contact details of two academic referees
• A brief summary of your previous research (max. 1 page)

For any questions, please contact abarbabon@constructor.university 

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Selected candidates will be invited for online or in-person interviews. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Apply