PhD student in Molecular Pharmaceutics

The Department of Pharmacy at Uppsala University has an interdisciplinary environment at the center of the pharmaceutical arena. With frontline research, first-rate education and extensive collaborations we constitute an important driving force in the development of our academic field. The department has approximately 150 employees and a revenue of nearly 160 million SEK. 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 competencies are computational modelling and simulations, PKPD, in vitro ADME models, advanced in vivo methods, development of biological medicines, as well as patient and societal aspects, from optimizing the use of drugs in individuals to societal pharmaceutical policies. Together, we form a unique cluster of academic competencies within pharmaceutical science, playing a key role in shaping the future of pharmacy in both Sweden and globally.

Duties

The purpose of the doctoral project is to develop new molecules that can be used for more effective uptake of orally administered drugs, particularly therapeutic peptides. This will be done by using new methods within artificial intelligence for molecular design, in combination with physically-based modeling of interactions between model peptides and the intestinal environment, as well as in combination with cell profiling data from a related project.

There are several advantages to oral drug administration compared to the alternatives. Patients can manage their own medication, do not need assistance from healthcare professionals, and avoid various types of injections. Drugs in the form of therapeutic peptides also have advantages over traditional low-molecular-weight substances, and increasing their uptake when administered orally is desirable. However, in the body, there are numerous barriers of various kinds that have evolved to prevent the intrusion of foreign substances, which is a problem from a drug delivery perspective. One strategy that can be used is to add an additional molecule to the formulation, which enables the drug peptide to bypass some of these barriers. This strategy works in principle but is hindered by a lack of knowledge about which properties a molecule used for this purpose should have to optimally contribute to increased absorption.

The holder of a doctoral position should primarily focus on their research studies. Other tasks at the department, such as administration and teaching, may be included to a level not exceeding 20% of the working time.

Requirements
To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• hold a Master’s (second-cycle) degree in e.g engineering, or  a Master’s degree in pharmaceutical modelling or a related discipline, or
• have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way.

We place great importance on personal suitability as well as motivation and the ability to independently conduct research studies. Previous experience in modeling and simulation, machine learning/AI, high-performance computing, and programming is valuable. Applicants should be able to express themselves well, both orally and in writing, in English. Furthermore, the applicant should have good collaborative skills and demonstrated ability to conduct a scientific project in a structured and methodical manner.

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

Application Procedure
The application should include (i) a letter in which the applicant briefly describes themselves and their research interests as well as experiences in relation to the qualification requirements mentioned above, (ii) the candidate's CV, (iii) copies of diplomas and transcripts, (iv) two letters of recommendation (preferably at least one letter from the supervisor of the master's project), and (v) the thesis/master's project, as well as any other documents the applicant wishes to invoke, such as proof of English proficiency.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 2024-10-01 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Per Larsson,+46 18 471 5396, per.r.larsson@uu.se.

Please submit your application by 31 July 2024, UFV-PA 2024/2056.

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