Postdoc position in medicinal chemistry at SDU in Odense

TheDepartment of Physics Chemistry and Pharmacy University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense invites applications for a postdoctoral position embedded in the laboratories of the Section of Chemistry as part of a Novo Nordisk Foundation project on the semi-synthesis of pleuromutilin derivatives as new antibiotics.

The position is available for 1.5 years.

The research group specializes in the design and synthesis of antibiotics as well modified nucleic acids and has access to state-of-the-art facilities within synthesis purification and spectroscopy. Our lab is strongly engaged in on-site collaborations with colleagues from theoretical chemistry pharmacy and clinical microbiology.

We are seeking an experienced medicinal chemist for a 1.5 years postdoctoral position focused on the design and synthesis of novel antibacterial agents. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team working to combat multi-resistant infections through innovative chemical strategies.

The postdoctoral project is part of our current activities on developing new antibiotics based on pleuromutilins. The goal of this project is to identify a hit compound specifically targeting multi-resistant Gram-negative pathogens by introducing new modifications to the natural product Pleuromutilin. This will involve semi-synthetic approaches to generate derivatives with improved activity and decreased resistance potential.

Given the medicinal chemistrydriven nature of this project we are specifically seeking a candidate with documented experience in lead optimization including structureactivity relationship (SAR) development physicochemical property tuning and scaffold modification. Applicants must demonstrate a strong track record in medicinal chemistry.

The ideal candidate has the following competences and skills:

• A Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry
• Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry including multi-step synthesis and medicinal chemistry
• Good interpersonal and communication skills (English) for effective teamwork across disciplines.
• Knowledge of structureactivity relationships (SAR) and drug-property tuning (ADMET)

Additional valuable skills:

• Experience with antibacterial drug design
• Experience with drug innovation and commercialization

Starting date: 1 April 2026 or soon thereafter.
For further information please contact Professor Poul Nielsen Department of Physics Chemistry and Pharmacy University of Southern Denmark e-mail:.

The Department of Physics Chemistry and Pharmacyis one of four departments at the Faculty of Science SDU and is located in Odense. At the department we contribute to solving some of societys greatest challenges within energy environment health and sustainability. We succeed because we build bridges between disciplines and transcend traditional boundaries. Our interdisciplinary mindset is not only a fundamental condition but also our strength. And it is a strength that ensures our research and education are recognized both nationally and internationally.

Our vision is to create and apply knowledge across the natural sciences. We are unique in housing research within physics chemistry and pharmacy under one department which provides excellent opportunities to explore the intersections between these disciplines.

Read more here: salary etc.
The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).Please check links for more information onsalary(only available in Danish)andtaxation.

The application must include the following:

• A curriculum vitae including information on previous employment with start and end dates
• A full list of publications stating the scientific publications on which the applicant wishes to rely and copies of all publications on which the applicant wishes to be evaluated
• Copy of PhD diploma if Phd diploma has not yet been received please include statement from your supervisor
• A brief survey of the applicants most important research results

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated.

To qualify you must have passed a PhD or equivalent. Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link Apply now. Attached files must be in Adobe PDF format. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDUbefore you apply.

Further informationfor international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.