Introduction to the vacant position:
The Enzyme Sensors and Chemical Probes group is looking for a motivated Ph.D. student to dissect post-translational modifications (PTMs) across the microtubule network of the cell, by developing new inhibitors and fluorescent sensors of metalloenzymes. This positions fit within the scope of the project CHEMTUBIO (ERC Starting Grant), and within our overall aim of revealing disease mechanisms through the development of imaging tools and chemical probes, leading up to methods for translatable drug discovery.
Main tasks and responsibilities:
• Synthetic organic chemistry: develop small molecule- and peptide-based inhibitors of metalloenzymes / cysteine-dependent enzymes using in-solution and solid-phase chemistry
• Enzyme assay development: investigate enzyme activity in vitro using purified recombinant proteins
• Live cell imaging: study the spatiotemporal regulation of microtubule PTMs through selective enzyme inhibition and activity sensing in cell culture
• Training activities:attend scientific seminars,



as well as courses in scientific and transversal skills, as part of the doctoral training
• Outreach: disseminate research findings at international conferences and through publications

Requirements for candidates:
Essential:
• Education: M.Sc. degree in Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field
• Technical expertise: demonstrated expertise in organic chemistry and/or biochemistry techniques
• Transversal skills: scientific communication in English, ability to work in a diverse and interdisciplinary environment, time management, collaboration
• Motivation: strong interest in cutting-edge research and in the development of analytical skills and scientific independence

Advantageous:
• Experience in solid-phase peptide synthesis
• Experience in compound library synthesis
• Experience with in vitro enzyme assays
• Experience working within international teams or institutions

Competencies and Skills:

📌 2 Ph.D. students in Medicinal Chemistry (Barcelona)
🏢 Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)
📍 Barcelona