Postdoctoral position: The Catch and Release of Natural Products 70 %

This research project aims to isolate natural products from complex mixtures by targeting functional groups present on the compounds. By using functional group-specific chemical probes, the isolation of novel compounds from complex mixtures will be more efficient and provide more information on the compound than current standard procedures. In the first stage of the project, the chemical probes will be synthesized following the general design concept: an anchor, a cleavable linker and a reactive head. In the second stage, the chemical probe approach will be tested on known natural products to provide proof-of-principle. During the last stage, the chemical probes will be used for the discovery of novel compounds from cyanobacteria.

The project will be conducted at the Department of Chemistry under the supervision of Dr. Simon Sieber.

Your responsibilities
The candidate will work in a highly international and interdisciplinary environment with other researchers possessing diverse skills from synthesis, chemical biology, analytic chemistry and microbiology. The project will include the following experimental tasks:

*Synthesis of the chemical probe possessing a peptide scaffold
*Evaluation of the chemical linker by UHPLC-HRMS/HRMS
*Isolation of natural products from cyanobacteria
*Developing analytical method for the detection of the formed product

Your profile
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate to work in an interdisciplinary project with a high degree of initiative. The ideal candidate possesses a PhD degree in Organic Chemistry with a strong background in analytical chemistry and knowledge of peptide synthesis. Previous experience in natural product isolation will be considered as a strong advantage. Fluency in English is required, as well as excellent communications and writings skills.

What we offer
We offer an ambitious project in a highly stimulating environment with the potential of a quick career progression. Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art equipments and infrastructure ensuring the successful implementation of the aforementioned project. Furthermore, unique opportunities to develop a strong interdisciplinary portfolio will be available to
the successful applicant.

Place of work
Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich

Start of employment
The employment will preferably start in January 2020. However, the starting date can be mutually agreed upon.
The applications of strongly motivated candidates should contain their CV, a motivation letter and contact details of two referees.

Further information
Dr. Simon Sieber

Please apply via our job portal http://www.jobs.uzh.ch