http://www.nature.com/naturejobs/science/

Drug delivery researcher : Limerick, Ireland

TITLE OF POST: Post-Doctoral Researcher in Drug Delivery
LOCATION: Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, University of Limerick
REPORTS TO: Project Leader: Dr Sarah Hudson
CONTRACT TYPE: Specific Purpose (funded for up to 4 years)
SALARY SCALE: €37,750 – €41,181 p.a.
JOB DESCRIPTION
QUALIFICATIONS:
· PhD in a relevant area.
OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE JOB:
This position is funded by Science Foundation Ireland. The purpose of the job is to lead the experimental programme for the development of innovative formulation strategies for novel antimicrobial resources. The successful applicant will be responsible for 2 PhD students and will coordinate the research with collaborators in the Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre (APC) at NUI, Cork, Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University and the Crystal Engineering Group in the University of Limerick.
DESCRIPTION:
We are seeking a talented scientist/engineer with a strong chemistry background and practical experience in at least two of the following 4 areas – chemical synthesis, crystallisation, drug formulation or mammalian and bacterial cell culturing.
The project will run over 4 years and will formulate novel antimicrobial resources through innovative approaches. By molecular design of the non-covalent interactions between drugs and excipients, nanoparticles of drug crystals/co-crystals will be generated to optimise dissolution rates. Solid drug dispersions will also be formed onto porous polymeric and mesoporous silicate matrices to optimise dissolution rates and protect sensitive bioactives from degradation in vivo. Both small molecules (polyketides) and large biomolecules (peptides) will be formulated using this molecular design strategy. The target application is the treatment of infection and the generation of prototype medicines to optimise the bioavailability of antimicrobial resources. Drug delivery platforms across 2 major delivery routes – injectable and oral routes of administration will be developed. Data from this study will rationalize the route to formulating novel drugs.
Postdoctoral responsibilities will include:
· Experimental work on crystallisation experiments
· Experimental work on the development of delivery matrices for macromolecules and peptides
· Molecular modelling of drug and excipient interactions
· Supervision and guidance of PhD students in the group
· Dissemination of data generated at international conferences, in peer reviewed publications and in interim reports back to the SFI. The candidate will also work with the PI to register patents to protect intellectual property where appropriate.
The person appointed will have assistance from research associates and technical staff. The successful candidate will be based at the University of Limerick (UL).
Essential Criteria
· PhD in a relevant area.
· At least three senior author peer reviewed journal publications listed on Web of Science.
· Demonstrable evidence of training/experience in the field of either drug delivery or crystallisation of organic molecules.
· Extensive experience with characterisation of solid state materials.
Desirable Criteria
· Experience with cell and bacterial culturing
· Experience with chemical synthesis and NMR analysis.
· Experience with crystallisation theory and molecular modelling
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
· Track Record in Student Supervision
Please note your application must include a 1-2 page statement/cover letter that summarizes your accomplishments and goals.

For further information, please contact Dr Sarah Hudson by email at sarah.hudson@ul.ie….

Job details

Employer:University of Limerick

Website:http://www.ul.ie

Location:Limerick, Ireland

Expires:July 17, 2014

Job type:Postdoctoral

Salary:Unspecified

Qualifications:Postgraduate - Doctorate/PhD

Employment type:Contract

Job hours:Full-time