University assistant predoctoral (Life Sciences)

University assistant predoctoral (Life Sciences)

The University of Vienna is a community of over 10,000 individuals, including approximately 7,500 academic staff members, who passionately pursue answers to the profound questions that shape our future. They represent individuals driven by curiosity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With us, they find the space to try things out and unfold their potential. Are you inspired by their passion and determination? We are currently seeking a/an

University assistant predoctoral (Life Sciences)

50 Faculty of Life Sciences

Job vacancy starting: 08/01/2025 (MM-DD-YYYY)

Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc)

Limited contract until:

Job ID: 3848

Explore and teach at the University of Vienna, where more than 7,500 academics thrive on curiosity in continuous exploration and help us better understand our world. Does this sound like you? Then join our accomplished team! A PhD position is available in the group of Prof. Dr. Konrad at the University of Vienna, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry starting in August 2025. We are looking for a candidate with expertise in medicinal chemistry/synthetic organic chemistry with a passion for drug discovery to join our young and enthusiastic team.

The project involves the design and synthesis of covalent chemical probes and drug candidates. The foundation for developing these molecular tools includes establishing tailored reactive elements ('warheads' or 'chemotypes'). To generate drug candidates, scaffold modifications will be performed as part of structure-activity relationship studies. Our group focuses on antioxidant proteins involved in ferroptosis in therapy-resistant and metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Key technologies include a (chemo)proteomics platform for studying protein targets, off-target engagement, and mechanisms of action, as well as a semi-automated high-throughput experimentation platform to accelerate chemical reactions. The successful applicant will spend the first 3 months of the PhD project at LMU Munich for training purposes.

Your personal sphere of influence:

• Experience in synthetic organic/medicinal chemistry and a passion for drug discovery
• A deep interest and enthusiasm for scientific work
• A critical and analytical mind
• Ability to work responsibly, reliably, diligently, and independently in experiments
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team within the group and with external collaborators
• A passion for training colleagues and students in the laboratory
• Experience with common laboratory techniques (see "Your future tasks")
• Programming skills in Python and R, with experience in statistical data analysis, are advantageous

Your future tasks:

The main techniques include chemical synthesis, compound analysis, and reactivity studies. Experience with inert-atmosphere techniques (Schlenk line, glovebox), NMR, HRMS, HPLC, LC-MS, UV-vis, and reaction kinetics is expected. Candidates are encouraged to apply if they have experience with these methods and are eager to learn new approaches. Programming skills in Python and R are a strong plus.

About us:

We are a young, enthusiastic team focused on developing new treatments against drug-resistant and metastatic lung cancers by working at the interface of medicinal chemistry, chemical methodology, cancer biology, and (chemo)proteomics. Our project aims to study phenotypic plasticity related to cancer progression, hydrogen peroxide signaling, and ferroptosis. The group is transitioning from LMU Munich to the University of Vienna. More info: https://konrad.cup.uni-muenchen.de/

This is part of your personality:

You have a completed Master’s degree (or equivalent) in:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Drug Development
• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Chemical Biology

What we offer:

• Work-life balance: Flexible hours and partial remote work
• Inspiring atmosphere: International academic team in a healthy, fair environment
• Transport: Easily accessible by public transport
• Training & coaching: Over 600 free courses for skill development
• Duration: 4-year contract, initially 1.5 years with automatic extension
• Salary: EUR 3,714.80/month (full-time), with potential increases based on experience
• Equal opportunities: We encourage diversity and especially support women in academic positions

How to apply:

• Send your CV and cover letter
• Include a research statement or project proposal (max. Xp.)
• Attach Master/Degree certificate
• Apply via our job portal

Questions?

Contact: David Benjamin Konrad
Email: david.benjamin.konrad@univie.ac.at

We look forward to your application! The University of Vienna promotes equal opportunities and diversity. We particularly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference is given to female candidates.

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Application deadline: 05/23/2025 (MM-DD-YYYY)