PhD Student: Imaging Probes & Metalloenzyme Inhibitors

BIST People Working Group; Barcelona; On-site; EUR 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

3-year contract

Visa/relocation support

Flexible schedule

Paid holidays and leave

Job summary

The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) in Barcelona seeks a motivated PhD student to dissect PTMs across the microtubule network by developing inhibitors and fluorescent sensors of metalloenzymes. The 3-year, full-time position starts Jan–Feb 2027 and includes visa support and access to IBEC's international research environment.

Applicants should have MSc in a related field and strong organic chemistry/biochemistry skills, with a drive for independent, high-level research and

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Synthetic organic chemistry: develop small molecule- and peptide-based inhibitors of metalloenzymes using in-solution and solid-phase chemistry.
• Enzyme assay development: investigate enzyme activity in vitro using purified recombinant proteins.
• Live cell imaging: study spatiotemporal regulation of microtubule PTMs through selective enzyme inhibition and activity sensing in cell culture.
• Training activities: attend scientific seminars and courses in scientific and transversal skills as part of doctoral training.
• Outreach: disseminate research findings at international conferences and through publications.

Job description

The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) in Barcelona seeks a motivated PhD student to dissect PTMs across the microtubule network by developing inhibitors and fluorescent sensors of metalloenzymes. The 3-year, full-time position starts Jan–Feb 2027 and includes visa support and access to IBEC's international research environment.

Applicants should have MSc in a related field and strong organic chemistry/biochemistry skills, with a drive for independent, high-level research and