Master's Thesis in Medicinal Chemistry (DNA-encoded Libraries)

About the role

Philochem AG, the research and development division of the Philogen Group, is looking for a master's student to carry out a thesis in its Small Molecule Therapeutics research unit in Otelfingen, Switzerland. The work contributes to ongoing projects in medicinal chemistry and targeted drug discovery, including the synthesis and screening of DNA-encoded libraries and the resynthesis, purification and characterisation of selected hits.

Key responsibilities

• Synthesise and screen DNA-encoded libraries against targets of pharmaceutical interest
• Carry out organic synthesis and characterisation of small molecules for diagnostic and therapeutic oncology applications
• Evaluate compounds in vitro, with the possibility of expanding to in vivo models
• Prepare and deliver scientific presentations
• Write scientific reports and the master thesis

Required profile

• Enrolled in a Master's degree in chemistry, medicinal chemistry or a related discipline
• Passion and curiosity for synthesising and characterising organic compounds
• Fluency in oral and written English

Required skills

• Understanding of modern analytical techniques (HPLC, LC-MS) and interpretation of NMR results
• Data analysis and office software (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Literature searches in chemistry databases (PubMed, SciFinder, Reaxys) and applying them to synthetic problems

The thesis is expected to start in March 2027. Applications should include a CV and a letter of motivation and are sent to the company's contact persons.