The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) is inviting applications for a Ph.D. student position within the Enzyme Sensors and Chemical Probes research group. This role is part of the CHEMTUBIO project (ERC Starting Grant), focusing on dissecting post-translational modifications across the cell’s microtubule network through the development of new inhibitors and fluorescent sensors.
Quick Overview of the Position
| Designation | PhD Student |
| Research Area | Medicinal Chemistry / Chemical Biology |
| Organization | Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) |
| Location | Barcelona, Spain |
| Contract Type | Full-time, 3-year contract |
| Application Deadline | October 30, 2026 |
| Reference Number | PhD1-CM |
Designation
Ph.D. Student (Medicinal Chemistry / Chemical Biology)
Research Area
The research focuses on Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology, specifically targeting enzyme sensors, chemical probes, and the development of small molecule- and peptide-based inhibitors for cysteine-dependent enzymes.
Location
Barcelona, Spain (Parc Científic de Barcelona / UPC Besós Campus).
Eligibility/Qualification
Candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Education: M.Sc. degree in Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
- Technical Expertise: Demonstrated experience in organic chemistry and/or biochemistry techniques.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in scientific communication in English.
- Soft Skills: Ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment, time management, and proactive collaboration.
- Advantageous: Experience in solid-phase peptide synthesis, compound library synthesis, or in vitro enzyme assays.
Scholarship Description
The successful candidate will join the Enzyme Sensors and Chemical Probes group to work on the CHEMTUBIO project. Main responsibilities include:
- Synthetic Organic Chemistry: Developing small molecule and peptide-based inhibitors using in-solution and solid-phase chemistry.
- Enzyme Assay Development: Investigating enzyme activity in vitro using purified recombinant proteins.
- Live Cell Imaging: Studying the spatiotemporal regulation of microtubule post-translational modifications (PTMs).
- Training and Outreach: Attending scientific seminars, participating in doctoral training, and disseminating findings at international conferences.
IBEC offers a stimulating international environment, mobility grants, a mentoring program, and measures to reconcile work and family life, including 23 days of paid holiday and flexible working hours.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application through the IBEC dedicated career portal. Ensure you use the reference PhD1-CM in your application. Only applications submitted through the official portal before the deadline will be considered.
Apply Link: IBEC Career Portal
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for submission is October 30, 2026.
