Development of a new fluorescent nucleoside analog for the synthesis of therapeutic nucleic aci[...]

Organisation / Company Université de Strasbourg Laboratory UMR 7021 - LBP Is the Hosting related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Keywords

Fluorescent probes; therapeutic nucleic acids; amide internucleoside linkages; nucleases stability

Offer description

Therapeutic nucleic acids, which are mainly antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or aptamers, have undergone numerous structural modifications to increase their stability and activity. One of these is the replacement of phosphodiester bonds in the sequence by amide bonds. Furthermore, there are no efficient methods for tracking these objects by fluorescence. The probes currently used to label oligonucleotides are bulky external probes, which can lead to conformational changes and loss of target recognition.

In our project, we aim to use our experience with thG, an isomorphic fluorescent analog of guanosine, to create a fluorescent probe which allows introduction of amide bonds into oligonucleotide sequences. The purpose is to combine the fluorescent properties of thG with benefits of the presence of amide bonds into the sequence.

We are looking for an organic chemist with good skills in synthesis. The candidate will work in a multidisciplinary team in an international environment. He will be entrusted with the synthesis of the thG derivatives needed for the synthesis of the oligonucleotide sequences. Skills in fluorescence will be appreciated but are not mandatory.

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