Vacant job

Do you want to work with organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry with the support of competent and friendly colleagues in an international environment? Do you want an employer that invests in sustainable employment and offers secure, advantageous working conditions? We welcome you to apply for a postdoctoral position at Uppsala University.

The Department of Medicinal Chemistry at Uppsala University is a strong and international research environment. The department has approximately 85 employees, where PhD students, teachers, researchers, and administrators work closely together in a creative and open environment.

You will work in the research group Medicinal Design and Drug Development at Uppsala University. The group's research is primarily focused on the design and synthesis of molecules in early drug discovery, as well as the development of new methods for organic synthesis. The research group is part of the Department of Medicinal Chemistry and consists of approximately 15 senior researchers and PhD students, many with an international background. The project is a joint collaboration within the JPIAMR-funded project FunHitDisco.

Job Description

There is a significant societal need for new antifungal drugs, where the identification of new molecular starting points for further development is central. The project is part of the international consortium FunHitDisco, which brings together research groups from four European countries. Within Moodie's research group, the postdoc will synthesize hits identified through RNA display technology and natural product screening. Furthermore, analogues will be synthesized to study structure–activity relationships (SAR) and optimize the drug-like properties of the substances.

The main task is to lead and participate in the research project. Your duties may include supervising degree projects, teaching, or similar. The position involves documenting laboratory work, as well as planning and evaluating data, and being partially responsible for compiling manuscripts. You are also expected to present research results at project meetings and seminars.

Qualifications

A PhD in chemistry, biology, biomedicine, pharmacy, or related fields, or a foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a degree in these subjects. The degree must be completed no later than at the time the employment decision is made. Preference is given to those who have completed their degree within the last three years. When calculating the three-year time limit, the starting point is the last day of application. If there are special reasons, such a degree may have been completed earlier. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, trust positions within trade unions, etc.

High competence in organic synthesis and organic chemical structural analysis is required. The applicant must have excellent skills in communication and collaboration, and possess very good knowledge of English. The applicant is expected to work independently and be able to take own initiatives.

Desirable/Additional Merits

Previous experience in the synthesis of cyclic peptides and/or natural products is desirable.

About the Position

The employment is fixed-term for two years according to the central collective agreement. The position is full-time. Start date: September 1st or as agreed. Location: Uppsala.

Information about the research project is provided by: University Lecturer Lindon Moodie, [email protected]

Information about the employment is provided by: Prefect Professor Mikael Hedeland, [email protected]

In this recruitment, we have replaced the cover letter with questions that you answer in connection with your application. The answers will be used as part of the selection process. The application must also include a CV, a summary of your previous research experience (max 2 pages), and any educational diplomas and certificates. We recommend attaching reference letters or contact details (name, email, phone number) to previous employers or colleagues. The application can be written in Swedish or English. Applications are assessed based on the following criteria: fulfillment of eligibility requirements, previous experience, and personal suitability.

Apply no later than July 3, 2026, Ref: UFV-PA 2026/2067.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international standing. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,500 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and engagement, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University: https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/ (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/)

The position may be subject to a security clearance. In the event of a security clearance, a prerequisite for employment is that the applicant is approved.

We decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union Representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]