Postdoctoral Researcher in Organic and Supramolecular Chemistry

Postdoctoral Researcher in Organic and Supramolecular Chemistry
TalTech - Tallinn University of Technology
Tallinn, Estonia
Starting date:
01.01.2027
Employment duration:
2 years with possibility to continue for another year
About the project
Tallinn University of Technology Virumaa College invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join a research project developing molecular platforms for nucleic acid delivery. During the project, it is possible to visit the Chemistry Department of the University of Pennsylvania to work in the group of Professor Virgil Percec.
Messenger RNA (mRNA) technologies have potential in vaccines, therapeutics and advanced biomedical applications. However, the efficient and safe delivery of mRNA into cells remains a major scientific and technological challenge. Current lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations contain several components, creating opportunities to develop simpler, more precisely defined delivery systems.
The project focuses on the design, synthesis and characterisation of amphiphilic Janus dendrimers their influence on molecular self-assembly, physicochemical properties and mRNA delivery performance. The goal is to develop promising single-component delivery systems that could provide new alternatives to conventional multicomponent lipid nanoparticles.
The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary research programme combining organic synthesis, supramolecular chemistry, molecular characterisation and collaborative biological evaluation.
Key responsibilities
Design and synthesise novel amphiphilic Janus dendrimers and related molecular structures;
Develop and optimise multistep organic synthesis and purification procedures;
Characterise synthesised compounds using techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and other appropriate analytical methods;
Investigate structure–property relationships, including the influence of hydrophobic chain length and molecular architecture on self-assembly and delivery-related properties;
Contribute to the development and evaluation of mRNA delivery formulations in collaboration with project partners;
Analyse and interpret experimental data, prepare scientific publications and present research findings at international conferences;
Contribute to collaborative research activities and the preparation of future research proposals.
Candidate profile
Essential qualifications
A PhD in organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, chemical biology, pharmaceutical chemistry or a closely related discipline;
Strong practical experience in organic synthesis, preferably involving multistep synthesis and the preparation of structurally complex molecules;
Experience with the purification and characterisation of organic compounds;
Good scientific writing, analytical thinking and problem-solving skills;
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to an interdisciplinary research team;
Excellent written and spoken English.
Desirable qualifications
Experience in dendrimer chemistry, amphiphilic molecules, supramolecular chemistry or self-assembling molecular systems;
Knowledge of lipid nanoparticles, nucleic acid delivery, mRNA technologies or formulation chemistry;
Experience with advanced NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry or other structural characterisation techniques;
Experience collaborating with biological or biomedical research groups;
A strong record of scientific publications relative to career stage.
Candidates with a strong background in synthetic organic chemistry and an interest in expanding their expertise into supramolecular systems and nucleic acid delivery are particularly encouraged to apply.
What we offer
The opportunity to pursue innovative research at the interface of organic synthesis, supramolecular chemistry and biomedical technology;
A research environment with opportunities for international scientific collaboration;
Access to relevant chemical synthesis and molecular characterisation facilities;
Opportunities to publish in international peer-reviewed journals, present at scientific conferences and develop an independent research profile;
The opportunity to contribute to the development of new molecular platforms for mRNA delivery with potential applications in future biomedical technologies;
Employment conditions and remuneration commensurate with qualifications and experience, subject to the project budget and university regulations.
About Tallinn University of Technology
Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is Estonia's leading university for engineering, technology and applied sciences. TalTech combines fundamental research with technological development and collaboration with industry, supporting research with scientific excellence and practical relevance.
How to apply
Interested candidates should submit
A cover letter outlining their research background, relevant expertise and motivation for applying;
An academic CV, including a list of publications;
A brief description of previous research experience and relevant technical skills;
Contact details for two academic referees.
Please send your application to Jasper Adamson at
jasper.adamson@taltech.ee
, using the subject line “Application – Postdoctoral Researcher in Organic and Supramolecular Chemistry.”
For further information about the position and the research project, please contact Professor Jasper Adamson, Tallinn University of Technology Virumaa College.
Application deadline:
10.12.2026
Tallinn University of Technology welcomes applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.
Don't forget to mention EuroScienceJobs when applying.
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