Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC)

Organisation/Company Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC) Research Field Physics » Biophysics Chemistry » Computational chemistry Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country Spain Application Deadline 30 Jun 2025 - 14:00 (Europe/Madrid) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer DescriptionThe Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC) in Barcelona, part of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), is seeking a PhD student to join the Theoretical and Computational Chemistry Group within the Department of Biological Chemistry.

The selected candidate will join the Brain Signaling and Neurolipids Lab, led by Dr. Ramon Guixà-González, to work on a project investigating how brain lipids—especially omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids—modulate the structure and function of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in neuronal membranes.

Project Description

The human brain exhibits a unique lipid composition, enriched in omega-3 fatty acids that affect membrane fluidity and, consequently, the function of membrane proteins such as GPCRs.

These receptors are central to neurotransmission and represent one of the most important families of therapeutic targets.

Changes in brain lipid profiles have been linked to a variety of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions.

This PhD project will use molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to examine how polyunsaturated fatty acids influence GPCR conformational dynamics, ligand binding, and downstream G protein signaling.

The student will contribute to the development of simulation protocols and the structural and energetic analysis of complex biomolecular systems.

To Learn More About The Group's Research And Publications

We are looking for a highly motivated and qualified candidate with:

A Master's degree in chemistry, biophysics, bioinformatics, neuroscience, or a related disciplineAn excellent academic record at both undergraduate and master's levelStrong programming skills and proficiency in Linux environments — both are essential requirementsExperience with molecular simulation software (e.g., GROMACS, NAMD) is an advantageKnowledge of machine learning, neural networks, or AI methods is a plusStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsInterest in interdisciplinary and collaborative scienceWhat We Offer

A 3-year PhD contract in a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment at IQAC-CSIC in BarcelonaSupervision and training in cutting-edge computational techniques applied to biomolecular systemsAccess to high-performance computing resources and collaboration opportunities with national and international research networksGross annual salary: approximately EUR 25,000A stimulating scientific setting in Barcelona, known for its Mediterranean climate, cultural richness, vibrant research community, and outstanding quality of lifeHow to Apply

Applications Should Include

A detailed CVAcademic transcripts (Bachelor and Master)Contact information for at least one academic referenceWhere to applyE-mail ******

RequirementsResearch Field Physics » Biophysics Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Research Field Chemistry » Computational chemistry Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Research Field Chemistry » Computational chemistryPhysics » Biophysics

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