Postdoctoral Researcher in Drug Formulation

antiviral efficacy (in the nanomolar range) of our compound across various cellular and animal models, and to confirm its potential as a new broad-spectrum antiviral. LAVR-289 is more potent than current 'gold' standards and is positioned as a dual-action treatment (against poxviruses and DNA viruses) for first-line use in the event of a viral outbreak or the use of poxviruses as a biological weapon, as well as against various herpes viruses (cytomegalovirus, zona). In the development of a medicinal product, the choice and implementation of the formulation take into account the route of administration: oral (tablets, capsules, etc.), pulmonary (aerosols), topical (cream, gel, ointment, patch, etc.) or parenteral (intravenous injection, etc.). Furthermore, the study of the drug release kinetics from the dosage form is an integral part of the formulation study. For LAVR-289, preliminary in vivo studies carried out by the NIH have demonstrated high efficacy when administered topically against the varicella-zoster virus, which causes shingles, and HSV-1, fully justifying the development of formulations such as creams, gels, ointments and patches, based on innovative forms such as Emulgel, Oleogel and TheDES. Thus, in partnership with the Pharmacie Centrale des Armées, the French military pharmaceutical organisation, the aim of this project is primarily to create topical formulations suitable for the delivery of LAVR-289 via the skin. Indeed, transdermal administration allows drugs to pass through the skin barrier, either for a topical effect or to enter the systemic circulation.

Presentation of the Service / laboratory

The work will take place at the Institute of Organic and Analytical Chemistry (ICOA – UMR CNRS 7311) at the University of Orléans, that focuses on the synthesis, extraction, identification and quantification of new bioactive molecules with potential applications in therapeutics and cosmetics. The scientific approach ranges from the design of new structures via molecular modelling, to the synthesis of new organic molecules (heterocyclic compounds, sugar derivatives and nucleoside analogues), to the extraction of compounds of interest from natural sources (terrestrial plants, insects, algae, fungi) using innovative techniques, to the analysis of these compounds using the most advanced spectroscopic and separative techniques (LC-HR-MS, 400 and 500 MHz NMR) and enzymology to identify the receptors for certain bioactive molecules.

The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to work at an institute that promotes innovation and excellence in research, and which encourages collaboration with other research organisations to facilitate access to the various instruments required for the physico-chemical measurement of polymers or soft matter that are not available on site.

The salary is competitive and based on experience (ranging from postdoctoral researchers with no experience to those with up to 18 months' research experience following their PhD), in a collaborative and friendly working environment, and there is the opportunity to be the author of high-impact publications.

The post is within a sector covered by the scheme for the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST) and therefore, in accordance with the regulations, the postdoctoral researcher's appointment must be authorised by the relevant authority at the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR) (ZRR application).

Presentation of the missions

The main objectives are (1) the development of formulations—such as creams, ointments and patches—based on innovative forms of LAVR-289, including Emulgel, Oleogel and TheDES, and (2) bioanalytical methods (HPLC) to study the skin permeability of the antiviral. We therefore propose to develop systems of the soft-matter type (Emulgel, Oléogel and TheDES) or structured systems (microspheres or polymeric films, which are biodegradable and biocompatible) for the transdermal delivery of LAVR-289, or for parenteral administration if fine emulsions are developed. These will be designed to release the active ingredient in a controlled and predetermined manner, and will contain a sufficient load of the active ingredient to demonstrate antiviral activity. For this project, we aim, where possible, to combine molecular imprinting technology with topical delivery systems for a broad-spectrum antiviral agent, enabling the fight against these DNA viruses within the body through the use of a 'Drug Delivery System' as a reservoir for the antiviral agent for transdermal use.

Presentation of the profile

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher – either early-career or experienced – specialising in drug formulation, with experience in formulations designed for the topical and parenteral administration of lipophilic active ingredients and, ideally, practical experience in separative techniques and organic synthesis (polymers or small molecules).

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Formulation Chemistry
• Experience in the field of 'soft matter' systems (Emulgel, Oleogel and TheDES) or structured systems (polymeric films or microspheres)
• Proven productivity demonstrated by publications in high-impact journals
• Ability to work independently within a dynamic research environment, and to seek out collaborations in the field of materials analysis.

Where to apply

https://jobaffinity.fr/apply/j049atte6vbqnei1q1

Requirements

Research Field: Medical sciences
Education Level: PhD or equivalent

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available: 1
Company/Institute: Université d'Orléans
Country: France
City: Orléans
Postal Code: 45100
Street: Rue de Chartres