About this position
Postdoctoral Position in focused antibiotic drug design
The Franz Laboratory in the Department of Chemistry at Duke University
is seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Associate to
be part of an integrated experimental and computational team working
to create focused antibiotic prodrugs that treat bacterial infections
while sparing the gut microbiome. Building on the laboratory’s
expertise in conditionally active small molecules, we aim to develop
antibacterial compounds that are selectively activated in response to
infection. The interested candidate will focus on synthesis and
evaluation of pathogen-selective, enzyme-activated carrier chemistry
and will work closely with computational collaborators and other team
members on iterative design-synthesize-test workflows.
Duties and Responsibilities: Design and perform experiments related to
funded programs, specifically: synthesize, characterize and evaluate
candidate compounds in microbiological assays; collect and analyze
data related to funded programs; maintain research records;
communicate research activities through reports, manuscripts,
abstracts, and presentations; attend research group meetings and
contribute to the overall functioning of the research group by
maintaining a safe and respectful work environment, maintaining
equipment and research materials following group and university
protocols, and mentoring other group members including graduate and
undergraduate researchers.
Qualifications: By the start date, applicants should have a Ph.D. in
Chemistry with specific expertise in synthetic chemistry. Strong
candidates will also have demonstrated experience in at least one of
the following areas: chemical biology, microbiology, cell biology,
pathogen disease research, computational approaches to drug design,
bioassay development, bioanalytical methods operation. Candidates
should demonstrate strong communication skills, a record of
independent research productivity, and enthusiasm for working both
independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary,
goal-oriented team environment. They should be able to take initiative
in advancing their own research while contributing constructively to
shared projects and supporting a collegial and inclusive team culture.
For more about our laboratory, visit: https://sites.duke.edu/franzlab/
Appointment details:
- Start date: October 2026 (flexible)
- Duration: The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal by mutual agreement and subject to continued funding from a milestone-oriented sponsor.
- To apply: upload a CV and cover letter describing your research background, research interests, and professional goals, as well as the contact information for three references.
- Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
- You will be contacted if we are interested in exploring your credentials further.
How to apply
- Read the full advert on the source site — it carries the authoritative terms.
- Prepare your SOP, CV, transcripts and referees before the deadline.
- Apply through the university's own portal. Never pay a fee to a third party.