Postdoctoral Scientist — Protein Science

Institution: Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt am Main (SGC-Frankfurt)
Location: Life Science Campus Riedberg
Term: Fixed-term, initially 3 years
Start: As soon as possible

About the role

SGC-Frankfurt is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist with expertise in protein science. In this role, you will establish and advance a protein biochemistry platform supporting rational small-molecule design, assay development, and structural studies.

The project is supported by the BMBF (German Federal Ministry of Education and Research), aiming to validate new targets for the development of innovative contraceptive agents.

Your responsibilities

• Establish a protein biochemistry platform supporting rational design of small molecules and the development of assays: The work involves recombinant protein expression in bacterial and insect cells and the development of biochemical and biophysical assays as well as high‑resolution structural determination using X‑ray crystallography or Cryo‑EM.
• Development of biophysical assays for interaction studies with small molecules: Technologies currently established comprise SPR, DSF, FP and NMR based assay systems.
• Development of biochemical as well as cell‑based target engagement assays: Design and perform biochemical assays to assess protein functionality and ligand binding.
• Project planning and data analysis: Plan and manage research projects including collaborations within and outside the funded network.
• Presentation of research findings: Prepare and deliver written and oral presentations of research findings to various audiences, including internal teams and collaborators. Publication of data in high impact journals.
• Work organization and infrastructure management: Independently organize and manage laboratory work processes, including routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and ongoing development of laboratory infrastructure.
• Technology evaluation and implementation: Assess and integrate new technologies and methodologies to advance research capabilities and streamline experimental workflows.

Your profile

• PhD in pharmacy, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a closely related field, with a strong foundation in protein science.
• A minimum of 2 years of postdoctoral experience, ideally in the field of protein science, with an excellent publication record in this area.
• Proven track record in protein biochemistry, structural biology or chemical biology.
• Experience in structural biology such as Cryo‑EM or X‑ray crystallography.
• Enthusiasm for working within international, interdisciplinary research teams, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange across diverse fields.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with a commitment to teamwork and mentoring.

About the Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC)

The SGC is a global, not‑for‑profit public–private partnership that accelerates drug discovery by openly sharing data, methods, and reagents without patent restrictions prior to publication. Operating across 7 academic sites worldwide and in partnership with pharmaceutical companies and more than 250 collaborating groups, the SGC develops high‑quality chemical probes, determines protein structures, and enables new biology in a fully Open Science framework. The SGC also leads the next phase of Target 2035, an international effort to create pharmacological modulators for every human protein to transform target discovery and therapeutic innovation.

Equality, diversity & inclusion

Goethe University is committed to increasing the proportion of female researchers and strongly encourages qualified women to apply. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference if equally qualified.

How to apply

Please submit one PDF containing your cover letter, stating your career interests, CV, and contact information for at least two referees by February 1, 2026, to