PhD student in computational pharmaceutics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Pharmacy at Uppsala University is an interdisciplinary environment at the center of the pharmaceutical arena. With frontline research, first-class education and extensive collaborations we constitute a driving force in the development of our academic field. In this inspiring environment our rich diversity of research groups, several of international prominence, develop and conduct work of great scientific importance. Among our core competences are computational modelling and simulations, in vitro ADME models, advanced in vivo methods and societal aspects from optimizing the use of drugs in individuals to societal pharmaceutical policies. Together, we form a unique cluster of academic competences within pharmaceutical sciences, playing a key role in shaping the future of pharmacy in both Sweden and globally.

More information: Farmaci.

Project: Influence of intestinal colloidal structures and self-assembly on lipid-based formulations for enhancing peptide drug bioavailability.

SwedNESS: The project is part of SwedNess, a national research school within neutron science research. The purpose of the research school is to strengthen competence in Sweden within the use of neutrons, by providing students with a thorough education and a wide network. PhD positions within SwedNess include a longer research stay at a relevant research facility or reserach group.

More information: Swedness.

Duties/Project description: The PhD candidate will work in the field of enabling drug formulations, within the project Influence of intestinal colloidal structures and self-assembly on lipid-based formulations for enhancing peptide drug bioavailability”. The purpose of the project is, using a combination of theoretical simulation methods and small angle neutron scattering, to investigate in what ways therapeutic peptide molecules are interacting with other components of intestinal fluids. This includes both molecules that are naturally present in the intestine (such as bile acids), but also different formulation components, primarily lipids and other co-solvents, which are used to increase the bioavailability of biological drugs. Through this combination we hope to gain an increased understanding of how intestinal dynamics interplay with drug bioavailability, and the various mechanisms that contribute to the observed inter-individual variability that is seen for peptide drugs.

The scientific focus areas of this project are Drug Delivery • Oral peptide formulations • Lipid-based formulations • Small angle scattering • Molecular dynamics simulations • Permeation enhancers •  Lattice-Boltzmann methodology

Qualifications: Master’s degree within Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Engineering Physics, Pharmacy or other relevant area. Previous experience with physics-based simulations, computational chemistry or similar methods is beneficial, as is previous experience with neutron or Xray scattering techniques. The applicant must also have good communication skills in English, both written and oral, due to the highly international work environment.

Other considerations: The candidate should be motivated, organised and being able to work both in larger teams as well as independently. The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies, which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

How to apply: The application should include a statement of research interest, CV, certificates of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of Master thesis, published article or relevant materials, if available. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines Policies and regulations at Uppsala University.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.
 
Starting date: 01-03-2021 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %.

For further information about the position please contact: Assistant Professor Per Larsson, email per.larsson@farmaci.uu.se.

Please submit your application by 21 December 2020, UFV-PA 2020/4525.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.