The University of Basel is offering two fully funded PhD positions in Natural Product Biosynthesis and Bioengineering, starting September 1, 2026. These positions are based within the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences—an internationally recognized hub for academic drug discovery and development.

Hosted in the Pharmaceutical Biology Group led by Robin Teufel, this opportunity is ideal for candidates aiming to work at the intersection of biochemistry, microbiology, enzymology, and drug discovery. The Pharmaceutical Biology Group within the Department is searching for two PhD students with interest and ideally experience in natural product biosynthesis and enzymology.

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Research Focus: Engineering Nature’s Chemistry

Natural products have long been a cornerstone of modern medicine, particularly in the development of antibiotics and anticancer agents. This PhD project explores how such compounds are biosynthesized and how their production can be enhanced or modified. The research centers on:

• Bacterial aromatic polyketides, a key class of bioactive natural products
• Enzymatic pathways responsible for molecular assembly
• Engineering enzymes to create novel derivatives with therapeutic potential

By decoding and redesigning these biosynthetic systems, the project contributes to both:

• Fundamental understanding of enzymatic catalysis
• Development of new drug candidates

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Your Role as a PhD Researcher

As a doctoral candidate, you will work in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, combining experimental and analytical approaches.

Core Responsibilities

• Investigate biosynthetic pathways of natural products
• Characterize enzymes involved in polyketide biosynthesis
• Engineer enzymes to produce novel compounds
• Collaborate with synthetic chemistry partners
• Analyze natural products using advanced techniques (LC-MS, NMR)
• Support teaching and mentor master’s students

Your work will take place at the Pharmacenter in Basel, a leading research facility equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

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Candidate Profile

Essential Requirements

• Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or related field
• Strong interest in natural product research and enzymology
• Fluency in English (C2 level)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in molecular biology or microbial genetics
• Knowledge of structural biology or X-ray crystallography
• Familiarity with protein engineering or bioinformatics
• Hands-on experience with analytical techniques (LC-MS, NMR)

Candidates should demonstrate scientific curiosity, technical competence, and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

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What the Program Offers

Joining the University of Basel means becoming part of one of Europe’s leading ecosystems for pharmaceutical research.

Key Benefits

• Fully funded PhD with competitive Swiss salary
• Access to cutting-edge laboratory infrastructure
• Mentorship from leading experts in drug discovery
• Opportunities for international collaboration
• Integration into a vibrant scientific community
• High quality of life in Switzerland

Basel is widely recognized as a global hub for pharmaceutical innovation, offering unique exposure to both academic and industry research networks.

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Why This PhD is High-Impact

This opportunity stands out for its direct relevance to:

• Antibiotic resistance research
• Anticancer drug development
• Enzyme engineering and synthetic biology

By working on biosynthetic pathway engineering, you contribute to the next generation of therapeutics while building highly transferable skills across academia and biotech industries.

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Application Process

Required Documents

• Short cover letter
• Updated CV (highlighting relevant experience and coursework)
• Contact details of two referees

Important Notes

• Applications must be submitted via APPLY NOW
• Email or postal applications will not be considered
• Early application is recommended due to competitive selection

Contact

For inquiries, contact:
Prof. Robin Teufel robin.teufel@unibas.ch

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are these PhD positions fully funded?

Yes, both positions include full funding with a competitive salary aligned with Swiss academic standards.

2. What research techniques will I use?

You will work with enzymology, molecular biology, and analytical chemistry tools such as LC-MS and NMR.

3. Is prior experience in natural product research required?

Yes, a background or demonstrated interest in natural product biosynthesis or enzymology is expected.

4. Can international students apply?

Yes, applications are open globally, provided candidates meet the academic and language requirements.

5. What career paths does this PhD support?

Graduates typically move into academia, pharmaceutical R&D, biotechnology, or drug discovery roles.

6. Will I collaborate with other researchers?

Yes, collaboration with synthetic chemists and interdisciplinary teams is a core part of the project.

7. Is teaching part of the role?

Yes, PhD candidates will assist with teaching and mentoring master’s students.

8. What makes Basel a good location for this field?

Basel is one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical hubs, offering strong connections to both academia and industry.