Postdoc – Rational development of anti-biofilm drugs for human pathogens - Jenal lab (100%)

Starting Date: January 2026 or by agreement

The Biozentrum of the University of Basel is one of the world’s leading life sciences institutes. With 32 groups and 500 employees, we are a dynamic and international research community that has spawned many fundamental discoveries in biology and medicine as well as several Nobel Laureates. Become part of our community!

The Jenal Lab at the Biozentrum of the University of Basel is seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoc with expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry and/or structural biology to join our team. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in structure-based discovery of anti-biofilm compounds.

Our research group at the Biozentrum is embedded in the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) AntiResist. We develop and use state-of-the-art organoid technology to better understand human infections and foster antibiotic discovery. We conduct a wide range of assays including cellular and molecular microbiology, advanced microscopy, omics etc. to reach a detailed understanding of human infections, host response and drug treatment.

The project

The project aims to develop novel anti-biofilm compounds that can be used to treat biofilm-related infections caused by a range of bacterial pathogens. Based on structural data demonstrating how an existing anti-biofilm compound binds to and activates its specific target in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, we will design, develop and test novel anti-biofilm compounds with broader activity against the WHO priority pathogens Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii. You will be working in a trans-national research consortium including experts in structure-based modelling, structure biology and chemistry.

Your profile

PhD in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry or Structural Biology with research experience in any of these areas. You are highly motivated, organized, independent, flexible, with excellent communication and strong team-player skills.

We offer

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated individual to contribute to a vibrant international research community and to tackle challenging questions in infection biology and drug development. The Biozentrum is a front-line international research environment with cutting-edge research infrastructure and excellent working conditions. The position is initially for one year, with the possibility of further extension. Salary and benefits according to University of Basel standards.

Basel is an international city with people from 150 nations. Located on the border where three countries meet, Switzerland-Germany-France, it is Europe’s most important life sciences hub. Basel provides a high standard of living and a rich and varied cultural atmosphere.

Application / Contact

Please apply online.

The application should include a brief personal statement, explaining how your qualifications and experience relate to the role, together with a full, up-to-date CV, diplomas and two reference letters. Review of applications will start immediately and proceed until the position is filled. Only online applications will be considered.

For any informal enquiries, please contact: jenal-recruitment@unibas.ch
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