Two Postdocs positions in LNP-based functional uptake of RNA-therapeutics

The rapid development of RNA and other nucleic acid-based drug modalities is about to entirely change the drug discovery arena. But with these promising high molecular weight drug candidates we are also facing new and challenging problems; discovery and development of functional delivery solutions for nucleic acid-based drugs is of importance for clinical success. To meet this challenge the SSF-funded research consortium FoRmulaEx - an industrial research centre for functional nucleic acid delivery was started and is headed by Chalmers with AstraZeneca as the lead industrial partner. The overall center goal is to create fundamental knowledge and novel technologies that will allow successful translation of RNA modalities into the clinic. This is a unique opportunity to work in a cross disciplinary scientific and engineering area of great importance in a novel setting with industry and excellent academic groups from various disciplines working hand in hand.

About the research
The specific goals of this research project are to develop novel labels/probes and nature-mimicking molecules for DNA/RNA systems, new improved techniques for biochemical and biological investigations and use these labels/probes, nature-mimicking molecules and techniques to study and enhance the function and delivery process of next generation drugs. Now the Wilhelmsson (Chemistry) and Höök (Physics) research groups, in collaboration with the research group of Margaret Holme (Life Sciences) and as part of FoRmulaEx, invites applications for up to two 2-year PostDoc positions in the field of biophysical chemistry and biophysics with an emphasis on enhancing the functional lipid nanoparticle(LNP)-assisted cellular uptake of RNA therapeutics.

Information about the division and the department
Information about the division and the department The Wilhelmsson group is active at the department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, which represents a broad field of fundamental and applied research and education within chemistry and chemical engineering. Its research activities reaches from fundamental chemistry, chemistry at the interface of biology and medicine, materials science, renewable energy, to chemical engineering processing, material recycling, nuclear chemistry, as well as theory and modelling.

The Höök group is active at the department of Physics, which represents a broad field of theoretical and experimental research and education within physics and physical engineering. At the division of Nano and Biophysics, Höök’s research group is focused on surface based single-molecule bioanalytical sensing for investigations of biomolecular interaction kinetics and biological nanoparticle characterization, with a specific emphasis on cellular membranes.

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility as postdoc is to perform your research project in either the Wilhelmsson and Höök research groups and to interact on a regular basis with other members of the groups. You are also expected to work in close collaboration with similar activities currently ongoing in the FoRmulaEx research center at Chalmers, especially the research groups of Margaret Holme and Elin Esbjörner.

Qualifications
To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Exceptions from the 3-year limit can be made for longer periods resulting from parental leave, sick leave or military service*. The applicant for this PostDoc position should have a PhD degree in biophysical chemistry, biophysics, surface/lipid chemistry, biomolecular interaction analysis, or an equivalent education. Meritorious qualifications: Previous PostDoc experience. Experience in nucleic acids specifically in RNA; knowledge in:


• Nucleic acid-based drug delivery
• Lipid nanoparticle formulations for RNA-therapeutics
• Handling in vitro enzymatic reactions important in nucleic acids research
• Mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique
• Working with surface analytical tools for biomolecular interaction investigations
• Membrane biophysics
• Image analysis.

The positions require sound verbal and written communication skills in English. Swedish is not a requirement but Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

* The date shown in your doctoral degree certificate is the date we use, as this is the date you have met all requirements for the doctoral degree.

Contract terms
Up to two full-time Postdoc positions - temporary employment(s) for two years.


Application deadline: 2024-10-15

 
For questions, please contact:
Professor Marcus Wilhelmsson, Chemistry and Biochemistry,
Marcus.wilhelmsson@chalmers.se, +46317723051

Professor Fredrik Höök, Nano and Biophysics
Fredrik.hook@chalmers.se,+46708951239


*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 




 

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.