PhD student in chemistry with a focus on organic chemistry

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We are now seeking a PhD student for a research project within chemical biology.

We are looking for someone who has experience in research within organic chemistry and finds it exciting to design and develop small drug-like molecules, as well as meets the other competency requirements. Apply no later than 2019-01-25.

Duties Umeå universitet holds a strong position within chemical biology, where interdisciplinary collaborations are key to answering complex questions. In this PhD position, you will work in such a project where the focus lies on the design, synthesis, and development of small molecules that can prevent the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) from becoming tolerant and resistant to antibiotics and the immune system. We call our compounds "Mycobacterial tolerance inhibitors", MTIs. Today, it is known that Mtb has the ability to convert into a very resistant form, and these difficult-to-treat infections require months of antibiotic treatment, which is why new ways to make Mtb sensitive again to the immune system and existing antibiotics are extremely important. There are still large gaps in knowledge regarding how Mtb undergoes this change and specifically which components affect this process. MTIs are therefore interesting both as chemical research tools to learn more about Mtb and its ability to resist the immune system and antibiotic treatment, but also because they have drug potential.

The main goal of this PhD project aims to further develop these molecules with respect to both activity and selectivity, as well as to introduce chemical groups/properties that make them useful as research tools and enable the identification of the exact target protein and thus the mechanism of action. The work therefore consists primarily of organic synthetic chemistry. Since the evaluation of the molecules' activity and selectivity is important for the project, you will also learn to test the molecules in simple test systems. You will also participate in group meetings focusing on the design and synthesis of the molecules, as well as project meetings with partners where the use of the molecules in biological studies will be discussed. The project includes several international research groups with complementary expertise, and regular meetings with them will be an enriching part of the work.

Qualifications To be admitted to doctoral studies, you must have basic eligibility through a completed degree at an advanced level, or completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits are at an advanced level, or an equivalent foreign education, or equivalent qualifications.

To fulfill the requirement for special eligibility for admission to doctoral studies in chemistry, you must have a basic higher education of at least 90 higher education credits in chemistry or other subjects deemed directly relevant to the current specialization. Of the 90 higher education credits, at least 15 higher education credits at an advanced level in organic chemistry, or equivalent, must be included.

Very good knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is required. Experience in research within organic synthetic chemistry, acquired through, for example, a thesis or equivalent, is a requirement. It is meritorious if the research in organic synthetic chemistry is linked to chemical biology or equivalent. You must be enthusiastic, enjoy experimental work, be meticulous, have a good work ethic, and be able to work both independently and in a group.

Terms of employment The employment aims for a doctoral degree, and the PhD student's main task is to engage in their own doctoral training, which includes both participation in research projects and doctoral training courses. In the duties, teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%) may be included. The employment is time-limited to four years full-time or up to five years if teaching is done part-time. Salary placement is according to the established salary scale for PhD positions.

Application The application must contain the following:

• CV
• A personal letter where you describe your scientific background and interests, previous research experience, and why you are applying for the position
• Certified copies of degree certificates or equivalent, including documentation of completed academic courses as well as obtained grades and other relevant certificates (e.g., English proficiency)
• Name and contact information for at least two references

You apply via our recruitment system. Log in and apply via the button at the bottom of the page. The last day to apply is 2019-01-25.

Further information is provided by Fredrik Almqvist, tel: 070-3979097, e-mail: fredrik.almqvist@umu.se

Information about us The Department of Chemistry at Umeå universitet is one of the largest departments within the Faculty of Science and Technology and has nearly 200 employees, of which approximately 40 are doctoral students. We are also a strong partner within KBC, Kemiskt Biologiskt Centrum (KBC, www.kbc.umu.se) at Umeå universitet, which provides state-of-the-art research equipment in a creative, inspiring, international, and interactive environment. We welcome your application!

Umeå universitet aims to offer a gender-equal and equitable environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lays the foundation for learning, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the position.

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