Teaser Text
The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR) are looking for a:
PhD candidate in the Development of Anticancer Nanomedicines
Nanomedicine represents a transformative frontier in modern healthcare, enabling precise diagnosis, targeted drug delivery, and personalized therapy at the molecular level. By exploiting nanoscale materials and systems, it allows drugs to reach specific cells or tissues while minimizing side effects and improving therapeutic efficacy. Its versatility promises breakthroughs in tackling complex diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and infections. In the NanoMed NL consortium we will develop nanomedicines involving all Dutch shareholders in the whole process. The consortium combines research on fundamental understanding, with the development of novel therapies for cancer or gene therapies for metabolic disorders while monitoring and improving our interaction with the Dutch society.
The PhD candidate will work on the development of polypept(o)ide-based nanomedicines to improve the current therapeutic options in cancer therapy. Therefore, the candidate will combine the polymerization of N-carboxyanhydrides and solid phase peptide synthesis to develop precision polymers and functional nanomedicines based on these materials. Afterwards, anticancer drugs will be covalently attached by disease responsive covalent bonds. The Functional systems will be evaluated within the consortium with respect to their therapeutic efficacy and compared against conventional antibody drug conjugates (ADCs).
What you will do
- Synthesis of functional amino acids
- Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis
- NCA/NNCA polymerization
- Drug conjugation (prodrug attachment) by biorthogonal chemistry
- Characterization of drug loaded nanoparticles in buffer and biological fluids
- Drug release studies
What you bring
The Barz lab is looking for candidates with strong background in Polymer and Organic synthesis. Ideally in peptide synthesis, NCA polymerization or synthetic organic chemistry:
- Master of Science (or equivalent qualification) in organic chemistry, (bio)pharmacy or polymer science,
- Strong background in synthetic chemistry
- Knowledge in solid phase peptide synthesis
- Knowledge in NCA polymerization
- Basic understanding of nanoparticle characterization techniques
- Ability to work an interdisciplinary team
- Highly self-motivated and goal-oriented; demonstrates initiative, persistence, and accountability in achieving outstanding results
Where you will work
What we offer
Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career program. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information, see the website: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions.
All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.
What we find important
Want to apply or find out more?
For more information about the recruitment process, please contact Ms Connie van Gent (c.van.gent@lacdr.leidenuniv.nl).
To apply for this vacancy, please submit your application online via the blue button below. Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents (in pdf format) quoting the vacancy number:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Transcripts of bachelor and master curriculum courses, including grades
- Preferably 2 reference letters
Candidates will be invited for an interview. An assessment of writing skills is part of the application process.
Only applications received before 15 November 2025 can be considered.