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Marie Sklodowska Curie – Initial Training Network
Two PhD positions are available in the Prins’ group at the Department of Chemical Sciences at the
University of Padova within the framework of the MSCA-Initial Training Network 'MULTI-APP: Multivalent
Molecular Systems for Innovative Applications' (2015-2019). This network brings together academic
research groups in Europe dealing with the fundamentals and applications of multivalency and
cooperativity. The network is complemented by industrial partners Philips and mivenion GmbH.
The starting date of both projects is July-September 2015.
Research
Multivalency is one of Nature’s governing principles for achieving strong and selective biomolecular
recognition. Many biological processes rely on the cooperative effects associated with the occurrence of
multivalent interactions. Consequently, there is an enormous interest in the development of chemical
multivalent systems that display similar features for innovative applications in fields as various as
diagnostics, drug discovery, materials science and nanotechnology.
The projects in Padova focus on the application of dynamic nanosystems obtained via the self-assembly of
small molecules on monolayer protected gold nanoparticles. Previous studies in our group have shown the
potential of these systems in the field of molecular recognition, chemosensing and catalysis. In particular,
we are interested in studying the interaction of these systems with small biomolecules such as
carbohydrates, peptides and nucleotides. Self-selection protocols will be developed as a new tool to create
multivalent receptor systems. The main techniques that will be used are synthesis and characterization
(NMR, MS, HPLC), fluorescence and UV/vis spectroscopy.
Candidate profile
We are looking for talented, motivated and enthusiastic students that have just obtained or are about to
obtain a MSc-degree in chemistry or materials science. Knowledge, experience and affinity with organic
chemistry, materials chemistry and/or physical-organic chemistry and/or supramolecular chemistry is
requested. Excellent knowledge of English (both written and oral) is essential.
Eligibility
The candidates can be of any nationality (European or non-European), but at the time of recruitment,
she/he must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Italy for more than
12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the reference date. Also the candidates should not be
already in the possession of a doctorate degree.
Benefits
A 36 months contract will be offered under full coverage of the Italian social security system. Salary and
additional benefits are according to EU-standards for Marie Curie ESRs (gross salary approx. € 39.000/year).
Candidates will enroll in the PhD-school in Molecular Sciences at the Department of Chemical Sciences at
the University of Padova.
Application
Applications can be sent to Prof. Leonard Prins (leonard.prins@unipd.it) and should include a cover letter,
CV, detailed academic transcripts and the contact details for at least two academic referees. The
application deadline is 30/03/2015. For additional information visit www.chimica.unipd.it/leonard.prins/