PhD Candidate in Drug discovery for Trypanosoma cruzi

The Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) is a world-leading institute in global health with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. Associated with the University of Basel, Swiss TPH combines research, education and services at local, national and international levels. 950 people from 95 nations work at Swiss TPH focusing on infectious and non-communicable diseases, environment, society and health as well as health systems and interventions.

The Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology (MPI) investigates the biology and transmission of pathogens. Findings from this research inform the development of new diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines against malaria, tuberculosis, schistosomiasis, Chagas and other neglected tropical diseases.

Within the Parasite Chemotherapy Unit of MPI, we are looking for a PhD candidate for the research project "Towards cidal drugs for T. cruzi: new tools, new targets, new molecules". This project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The successful applicant will be based at the Swiss TPH and registered for a PhD degree at the University of Basel, Switzerland.

Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease of global impact. The aim of the project is to characterize new lead molecules against Chagas disease, find out how they work, and devise drug combinations that provide synergistic and cidal action against the parasite.

Your position

• Plan and carry out your own research in the frame of the Ph.D. project
• High standard of work in laboratory facilities of biosafety levels 1, 2 and 3
• Working and networking in an Academic setting closely linked to corporate research
• Obtain at least 18 ECTS credits in the course of the Ph.D. project

  Your profile

• Master’s degree in the Life Sciences
• Skills in cell biology and molecular biology
• Strong interest in infection biology & drug discovery
• Effective communication in spoken and written English
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in the lab

We offer you

• Meaningful work in an international environment
• Great research project involving infection biology and drug discovery
• A state-of-the-art workplace in our new building on the dynamic BaseLink site in Allschwil
• Interesting encounters with people from a wide variety of backgrounds
• Being part of a committed and motivated team with short information and decision paths

• Start Date: Summer/Fall 2025
• Duration: limited contract of 3 years
• Percentage: 100%
• Location: Allschwil, Switzerland
• Travel required: yes - education and congress participation
• Internal job title: PhD candidate

• CV o Motivational letter o Names and contact information (email or phone) of 1 - 2 references o Reference letters and diploma Swiss TPH strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values diversity in all its forms, including gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background. We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. Together, we can make the world a healthier place. We look forward to receiving your application.