Design, synthesis and evaluation of novel environmentally sensitive fluorescent probes for imag[...]
Keywords
Organic synthesis, fluorescent probes, turn‑on, microscopy, GPCR, drug discovery, chemical biology
Project
G‑protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent the largest human membrane protein family and are one of the most important classes of drug targets. To detect and monitor those receptors both in vitro and in vivo, fluorescence techniques using molecular probes offer powerful, non‑invasive and safer alternatives to radiotracer‑based technologies. To visualize GPCRs and gain a deeper understanding of their functional activities within a therapeutic and drug discovery context, our team has developed new fluorogenic (or “turn‑on”) probes, enabling background‑free imaging of GPCRs and sensing of their microenvironment (Bonnet et al. JACS 2015, ChemSci 2020, ChemEurJ 2024 & 2025).
In this context, the candidate will have to design, synthesize and evaluate new turn‑on and environmentally sensitive fluorophores for the labeling of GPCR ligands. These new fluorescent tools will be evaluated via microscopy on living cells expressing GPCRs of therapeutic interest to better understand their intracellular trafficking and to develop new biosensors for drug discovery. This multidisciplinary project combines different expertise in organic chemistry, fluorescent dyes synthesis, photophysical characterization, and microscopy.
Working environment
The project will be carried out within the Laboratory for Therapeutic Innovation (UMR7200, CNRS/University of Strasbourg) which has long‑standing expertise in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology particularly in the discovery of numerous ligands targeting GPCRs.
Our team is part of the International Research Network (IRN) on GPCRs and the Drug Discovery Center of Strasbourg (IMS; dedicated to the discovery and the development of preclinical candidates in different therapeutic areas such as pain, autism and cardiovascular diseases in collaboration with start‑ups and pharmaceutical companies.
By joining a stimulating and internationally recognized research environment, the candidate will have the opportunity to conduct original and impactful research at the chemistry‑biology interface in the field of GPCR. The candidate will build an international academic network and establish connections with the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors, fostering the potential transfer of research and facilitating career development in non‑academic sector as well.
Candidate profile
- PhD in Organic Chemistry or related fields
- Strong expertise in organic and dyes chemistry, with solid knowledge of fluorescence and photophysical characterization
- Experience in live‑cell fluorescence microscopy would be an advantage.
- Highly organized and rigorous
- Autonomous with a strong ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
Who can apply?
Researchers of any nationality who:
- Have completed a PhD or will complete it at the date of the call deadline (September 2026).
- Have a maximum of 8 years full‑time equivalent experience in research at the time of the call deadline.
- Have not resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the call deadline.
Beware that applicants who have applied to the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 call and received an evaluation below 80% are not eligible for an application in 2026.
How to apply?
We encourage all motivated and eligible postdoctoral researchers to send their expressions of interest to the supervisor’s e‑mail address before 24th April 2026.
Your application shall include:
- a CV (5 pages max)
- a cover letter outlining your research background and its synergies with the supervisor’s field and/or the proposed research topic.
Estimated timetable
- Deadline for sending an expression of interest: 24th April 2026
- Selection of the applicant: May 2026 at the latest