DC 2: Fragment-based ligand discovery for the preQ1-II and SAM-III riboswitches

PhD project description:

This PhD project will focus on the identification of small molecules capable of binding to and inhibiting two bacterial riboswitches, preQ1-II and SAM-III. The workflow will consist of NMR screening, hit validation, fragment-to-lead chemistry, and functional validation of lead candidates. The PhD student will work in an interdisciplinary environment where synthetic and medicinal chemistry, cell biology, and animal studies are used for chemical biology and early drug discovery projects. You will have opportunities to work with other scientists within and outside the TargetRNA doctoral network and to collaborate with and supervise undergraduate students.

Research environment:

The laboratory of Prof. Mads H. Clausen focuses on chemical biology and medicinal chemistry. The group carries out projects related to the identification of ligands for pharmaceutically relevant biological targets (using HTS and FBDD) and their further development to functional inhibitors and probes, including degraders of targets of interest. We also have a long-standing interest in glycobiology and oligosaccharide synthesis, where we are currently pursuing HMO synthesis, identification of inhibitors of glycosyl transferases, as well as design of glycan-based vaccines.
You can read more about DTU Chemistry at www.kemi.dtu.dk/english and more about the MHC laboratory at www.kemi.dtu.dk/mhc

Skills/qualifications:

• 5-years degree (Master) in Organic/Medicinal Chemistry, or related fields.
• Practical experience in organic chemistry and biophysical techniques.
• Good level of English proficiency (understood, spoken and written).
• Team spirit and proactive attitude.

Benefits/salary/social security:

The salary for this position will be DKK 428.493 (€ 57.516).
The period of employment is 36 months. Starting date is January 2025-April 2025 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

The salary includes pension and the appointment will be based on collective agreement between the Danish State and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations, and the allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. Denmark has public health care for all, and work insurance is covered while employed by DTU.

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is located in the greater Copenhagen area, which is acknowledged for its excellent standards of living, childcare and welfare system.

For more information about the position, please contact Mads Clausen.