Postdoctoral Position Open
Dr. Ignacio Insua is seeking a postdoctoral researcher with a strong background in supramolecular chemistry and chemical biology for the study of self-assembling antimicrobial peptides. This is an excellent opportunity to join the Insua Lab, a research group at the interface of chemistry, nanotechnology and biology, focused on biomedical applications of peptide self-assembly at the Center for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS).
Project summary
Funded by an ERC Starting Grant, the project REPLICATE aims to develop self-replicating antimicrobial peptides that can activate and amplify cytotoxic action based on supramolecular assembly states. This work aims to develop fundamental knowledge in molecular self-replication while addressing the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance. The selected candidate will work on the rational design and synthesis of self-assembling peptides, study and optimise their supramolecular assembly properties, and assess their biological activity in bacterial and human cells in vitro.
More info: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101163359
Duration: Starting from March 2025 (flexible), 1 year contract + possible 1/2-year extension.
Required education and experience:
- Organic chemistry (ideally peptide synthesis), purification and characterisation.
- Aqueous supramolecular self-assembly.
- In vitro work: antimicrobial and mammalian cell assays.
To apply, please send your CV, a one-page motivation letter, and contact information of 2 referees to Dr. Ignacio Insua (ignacio.insua.lopez [at] usc.es) until Jan 26th, 2025.
