1. Inicio
  2. EMPREGO
  3. Vacantes
  4. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships: Call for Expressions of Interest 2025

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships: Call for Expressions of Interest 2025

09/04/2025

We support excellent candidates keen to join us

 

CiQUS is looking for outstanding researchers to apply for the MSCA-2025 Postdoctoral Fellowship (PF) and join our research center

We offer cutting-edge research Groups and specialized support for the applications.

Applications from female researchers will be prioritized

Selected candidates will be invited to work collaboratively with the Host PI and our support staff to develop a competitive application for MSCA-2025-PF.

 

Can you apply for MSCA-2025 Postdoctoral Fellowship? 

At the time of the Call deadline, 10th September 2025, the researchers: 

  • should have a PhD degree (successfully defended the doctoral thesis).

  • must have a maximum of 8 years research experience (career breaks will not count).

  • European Fellowship: must not have lived/worked in Spain for more than 12 months in the last 36 months.

  • Global Fellowship: must not have lived/worked in the country of the Outgoing Phase for more than 12 months in the last 36 months.

Please find here a brief about general conditions, eligibility and the 2 types of grants.

 

 

Why apply for a MSCA-PF at CiQUS?

We have successfully supported 22 MSCA-PF since 2021, and our researchers have been granted a total of 14 ERC projects (4 ERC-PoC). 

During the 2022-2024 period, our 19 research groups raised 9 MEUR/year and published over 100 publications/year, 40% in high-impact journals (JCR-IF > 9).

Santiago de Compostela offers a high-level scientific environment, and it is a lovely and friendly UNESCO World Heritage City. 

 

Project Idea and Researcher Opportunities

We invite you to submit an Expression of Interest (EoI) and strongly encourage applications from women. To find a suitable Supervisor, explore our Research Areas:

In addition, find below some topics proposed by our host supervisors

Expressions of Interest

Send one PDF file to ciqus.jobs [at] usc.es, subject: MSCA-2025, by June 15, including: 

1.- A short CV, maximun 2 pages, with your ORCID, Scopus or ResearcherID profile.

2.- A Letter of Interest including a summary of your project idea, maximun 2 pages.

EoI will be evaluated upon receipt by an internal committee and pre-selected on the basis of their quality and alignment with strategic lines.. 
 

Proposed Research Projects

Precision antibacterial agents: new mechanisms of action
Supervisor: Concepción González-Bello

The ability of antibiotics to cure bacterial infectious diseases is now at serious risk due to the consequences of broad-spectrum antibiotic use on microbiome stability and pathogen resistance. The disappointing returns from this approach have triggered a big shift in the antibiotic discovery perspective to turn the attention on precision antibiotics, which address infections without damaging microbiomes or incentivizing resistance. We seek to develop new antimicrobial agents with a new mechanism of action, by selectively disabling clinically unexploited bacterial targets that have vital roles in cell viability and pathogenicity, to face the challenge of life-threatening pathogens highlighted by WHO.

The applicant will address key pathogens causing major drug resistance concerns through a rational multidisciplinary approach (organic synthesis, biochemistry, X-ray crystallography, computational studies) to promote basic research forward to clinic. We seek for motivated candidates with initiative, creativity, and team-working ability.

Eur. J. Med. Chem., 2022, 232, 114206

Front. Microbiol., 2021, 12, 721826

JACS, 2015, 137, 9333-9343
Building Artificial Cells with Dendrimers
Supervisor: E. Fernández-Megía

The phenomenon of compartmentalization observed in eukaryotic cells has played a decisive role in the genesis of primitive cells. Although preparing completely functional cells is beyond the reach of current technologies, the de novo construction of artificial cell models that perform natural cellular functions represents a first step towards this goal. In addition, as compartments get better at mimicking natural, living cells, some of the mysteries of biology will be revealed, leading to a deeper understanding of prebiotic forms of early life, as well as the development of new therapeutic applications.

The goal of this project is the development of artificial cells with life-like technologies, able to communicate with natural cells and tissues. With this aim we rely on dendrimers, monodisperse and tree-link polymers, frequently referred to as artificial proteins that grant artificial cells enhanced stability under physiological conditions. We seek motivated candidates with experience in organic chemistry, open for multidisciplinary research. Biomacromolecules, 2025, doi 10.1021/acs.biomac.5c00038

J. Colloid Interf. Sci., 2025, 687, 293

J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2024, 146, 17211

ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 2024, 16, 36095
Metal-catalyzed C-H and C-C activation strategies: Enantioselective access to biorelevant heterocycles
Supervisor: Fernando López

Most metal promoted, enantioselective approaches towards many heterocycles have been based on the use of prefunctionalized substrates (e.g. organoboron, organozincs, Grignards, organic halides and pseudo halides). The invention of fully atom-economical, enantioselective approaches based on the activation of C-H bonds would represent a paradigm shift in the field.

Likewise, enantioselective annulations based on the activation of C-C bonds of strained cyclic systems are also highly attractive, but clearly underdeveloped, particularly with earth-abundant, environmentally friendly first-row metals.

We are looking for highly motivated and talented candidates with expertise in transition metal catalysis and or organic synthesis to advance in this direction.

ACIE, 2024, 63, e202408258

ACS Catal., 2024, 14, 11574–11583

ACS Catal., 2024, 14, 2872–2882

Chem. Sci., 2023, 14, 6408–6413

ACIE, 2022, 61, e202202295

ACIE, 2021, 60, 19297–19305

ACIE, 2021, 60, 8182–8188
Can E3 Ubiquitin Ligases Be Harnessed to Enhance Crop Immunity?
Supervisor: Beatriz Orosa-Puente

Plants have evolved sophisticated immune responses to defend against a wide array of pathogens, with ubiquitination playing a key regulatory role. E3 ubiquitin ligases are central to this process, but adapted pathogens deploy effectors to disrupt host immunity, leading to crop losses.

This project takes an innovative bioengineering approach to decipher how E3 ligases regulate immune signalling in crops. By characterising immune-regulatory E3 ligases, we aim to uncover their role in pathogen resistance and develop novel tools to manipulate plant-pathogen interactions, with direct implications for agricultural resilience and global food security.

The project will deliver both fundamental insights and practical bioengineering strategies for enhancing immunity. The tools and concepts developed here will be broadly applicable across multiple crops and pathosystems, offering a platform for future translational research in sustainable crop protection.

The Fellow will join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research group ((ERC-Consolidator Grant "SynUbL"), gaining hands-on training on molecular biology, biochemistry, proteomics, synthetic biology, and plant immunity. Applicants should have demonstrable expertise in molecular techniques (qPCR, cloning, western blotting). A background in protein structure-function analysis or synthetic biology would be advantageous. This project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge plant biotechnology, with rea-world impact.

Orosa-Puente et al. Science, 362(6421), 1407-1410 (2022)

Orosa-Puente et al. Nat Commun 9, 5185 (2018)

Sci. Adv.8, eabn4466 (2022)
Small molecules in cancer immunotherapy: harnessing the immune system to fight cancer
Supervisor: Eddy Sotelo

The advent of immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) using therapeutic antibodies has fueled major efforts to develop conceptually novel anticancer drugs. In this context, small-molecule immuno-oncology drugs are emerging as tailored agents that can target immunosuppressive mechanisms but also to activate intracellular pathways downstream of checkpoint proteins (in innate or adaptive immune cells) or modulate cancer metabolism targets.

The aim of the project is to develop small molecule modulators of immune checkpoints in adenosinergic pathways for cancer therapy, with a focus on glioblastoma treatments. The applicant will be involved in the conceptualization and experimental validation of new drug modalities in the context of a multidisciplinary team integrated in the ERNEST and IMMUNO-model COST actions.

We are looking for a proactive, autonomous, and enthusiastic researcher practiced in medicinal chemistry approaches. Expertise in computational drug design or experimental immunology methods would be an asset.

Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2020, 59, 16536-16543

J. for ImmunoTher. Cancer, 2022, 10, e004592

J. Med. Chem. 2023, 66, 890-912

J. Med. Chem. 2021, 64, 458-480
Self-assembled beta-helical conductive peptides for applications in green electronics
Supervisor: Eugenio Vázquez

Over the last few years, conductive peptides have emerged as an exciting technological opportunity for the development of new bio-based conductive materials, to the point that these systems are now ready to take the front seat as the basis of e-Biologics for the fabrication of sustainable green electronics.

In this context, we aim to develop a robust self-assembled fibrous peptide platform that can be easily synthesized and rationally modified to fine-tune its properties (e.g., electron or proton conductivity, stiffness, thermal stability, or rheological properties) for their applications in green electronics.

Ideally, the candidate will have a complementary background in materials science and study of conductive materials for electronics and energy applications.

Biomimetic nanoparticles as drug delivery carriers and nanovaccines
Supervisor: Ester Polo

We seek for engineering bioinspired nanomaterials that mimic the biological characteristics of components and structures of cell membranes. Nanocarriers with a surface that mimics different cellular compositions (such as leukocytes, platelets, erythrocytes...) can be programmed to perform specific biological tasks such as immune escape, lymphocyte and dendritic cell activation, endothelial adhesion, and homotypic targeting. Translating cell membrane features and thus, being capable of implementing their surface properties on nanomedicines, offer exciting opportunities to fabricate next-generation biomimetic nanocarriers.

We design by self-assembly of components derived from specific cells multifunctional biomimetic nanocarriers. The nanostructure properties and functionalities can be tuned by introducing fusogenic capabilities and incorporating relevant biomolecules. We also engineer hybrid biomimetic nanostructures, which combine cell membrane components and organic or inorganic NPs to create functional nano bio-inorganic assemblies with physical (e.g., inorganic NPs) and biomimetic capabilities. We are looking for highly motivated candidates with initiative, creativity, and team-working ability. Experience in bionanointeractions will be highly considered.

J Nanobiotechnol,2024, 22, 10

J Colloid Interface Sci,2023, 648, 488

J Nanobiotechnol,2022, 20, 538

Adv Biosyst,2020, 1,1900260
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy tools for application in cultural heritage
Supervisor: Massimo Lazzari

We are always looking for new generation researchers aiming to get involved in the study of the cultural heritage from a more multidisciplinary point of view.

We have experience in the study of the ageing of natural and synthetic organic materials in artworks and on their use for the conservation and preservation of historical objects and artworks, and also on the development of new non-invasive and non-destructive analysis techniques.

The applicant, either a chemist, a material scientist, a physicist or a heritage scientist would be involved in the application and the development of novel surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy tools for a wide-range application in cultural heritage.

Talanta, 2023, 254, 124177

Polymers, 2021, 13, 883

Chem. Commun., 2018, 54, 10638
Inorganic nanoparticle-loaded metal-organic-frameworks (iNP@MOF) for bioapplications
Supervisor: Pablo del Pino

The versatility and chemical flexibility of MOFs will be further complemented by inserting iNPs, including metal and metal oxide nanostructures having plasmonic, magnetic and/or photoemissive properties.

The combination of microporosity and iNP-derived properties will be exploited for theranostic applications in living cells and tissue models.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with initiative, creativity, and team-working ability.

References:

Small Struct.,2024, 5, 2300464

Chem. Commun., 2023, 59,2869

Nanoscale, 2022, 14, 6789-6801

ACS Nano, 2021, 15,10, 16924-16933

Cell Rep. Phys. Sci., 2020, 1, 100076

ANIE, 2019, 58,7078–7082
Cell-derived nanocarriers for induction of specific immune synapses.
Supervisor: André Pérez-Potti

Advances in immune cell biology reveal an unprecedented degree of regulation of T cell functions by phenotypically and functionally diverse Dendritic Cells (DCs). DC subclasses present a differential capacity to engulf, process, present and transport antigens. Such knowledge has opened the venue for designing therapeutic approaches to modify and tune the nature of T cell activation mediated by pre-defined DCs. In this context, the design of multifunctional vectors capable of promoting specific signalling through distinct DC populations can lead to the generation of more effective nanotherapeutics.

We are interested in the understanding of how the biomolecular surfaces of semi-artificial cell-derived nanocarriers can be engineered to enhance specific interaction with DC subsets (conventional DC 1 and 2s, plasmacytoid DCs, migratory and tissue-resident DCs, etc.) from human blood and tissues. We are designing a range of nanostructures starting from cell-derived products like vesicles or cell membranes that we re-assemble and engineer to introduce different surface functionalities (specific adhesion molecules to bind to DC partners, antibodies, etc.).

By incorporating lipids of different nature, we aim to modify the way of internalization and processing, affecting endocytosis/fusion balance and cytosolic delivery. Ultimately, we seek to understand the overall capacity of the designed nanostructures to modify the function of DCs and study their effect in different specific T cell co-cultures and organoids.

We are seeking for highly motivated candidates with a transversal vision and interest in immune regulation to work on understanding the nano-immune interactions and characterization of immune responses ex vivo.

Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023,197,114829

Scandinavian journal of immunology, 2022, Vol.96(1)

Sci Immunol., 2020, Jul 3;5(49):eaba7918

Cell., 2020, Oct 1;183(1):158-168.e14
Towards a molecular-level characterization of myelin directly from nerve tissue
Supervisor: Tiago Mendes Ferreira

Myelin is the substance that insulates axons making possible fast propagation of action potentials. Demyelination occurs in several diseases, the most common being multiple sclerosis. Understanding demyelination and remyelination at the molecular level may lead to the design of new treatments. We are currently investigating myelin models at the molecular level using advanced solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) spectroscopy methods and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.

The goal is to be able to apply ssNMR spectroscopy to peripheral and central nerve tissue enabling unprecedented direct access to the molecular structure of myelin in its native form.

Candidates must have expertise in at least one of these methodologies: (i) NMR spectroscopy, (ii) MD simulations, and (iii) preparation of myelin samples from animal models. Potentially interested candidates may contact Dr. Tiago Mendes Ferreira for more details.

Selected references:

Mag. Reson, 2023,

Nat. Comm., 2024,

Altermagnets: spin current generation in unconventional magnetic materials
Supervisor: Rafael Ramos

In this project we aim to explore spin current generation in a recently discovered new class of materials known as altermagnets [1].

Due to their specific type of symmetry, they possess properties that are akin to both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic phases, with large spin splittings and zero net magnetic moment. Having potential for highly efficient reading/writing capabilities in spintronics applications.

The applicant would be expected to combine thin film growth of candidate materials and investigate the physical properties related to spin-dependent transport [2] and thermal generation of spin currents [3].

[1] L. Šmejkal et al. arXiv:2204.10844v1

[2] R. Ramos et al. Appl. Phys. Lett. 114, 113902 (2019)

[3] R. Ramos et al. Nat. Comm. 10, 5162 (2019)
Oral delivery of proteins for biomedical use
Supervisor: J.M. Martínez-Costas

We developed an innovative in cellulo, one-step protein micro- and nano-encapsulation platform that allows enzyme-mediated surface derivatization of the purified spheres with any molecule of choice, from small molecules (fluorophores, peptides, adjuvants…) to large substrates (proteins, affibodies, nanobodies…). This approach, combined with a straightforward and cost-effective purification method, makes this technology a highly versatile and efficient alternative for various applications (e.g., subunit vaccines, enzyme stabilization).

Such covalent modification does not affect the properties and activity of the encapsulated protein, while enabling resistance throughout the full gastrointestinal tract and maintaining bioavailability, highlighting its potential for the oral delivery of bioactive peptides.

This project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge biotechnology focused on the oral delivery of peptides for various applications. We are seeking highly motivated candidates with a transversal vision and a strong interest in the oral delivery of therapeutic proteins.

Related Publications (same technology):

• Oral delivery: unpublished.

• Expression system

IC-Tagging methodology applied to the expression of viral glycoproteins and the difficult-to-express membrane-bound IGRP autoantigen. Scientific Reports, 2018, 16286

• Subunit Vaccines: Vaccines 2025, 13(3), 291; Vaccines 2022, 10(7), 1124; Vaccine, 2020, 38, 882-889; Antiviral Research, 2017, 142, 55
Synthetic valorisation of carbon dioxide / Synthetic reactions for DNA-encoded libraries (DELs)
Supervisor: Manuel Nappi

Synthetic valorisation of carbon dioxide The conversion of carbon dioxide into value-added products has emerged as an alternative method to achieve net-zero emissions. While technologies that transform CO2 into fuels and chemical feedstocks have made great strides, the direct use of CO2 as C1 synthon for the formation of new carbon-carbon bonds remains a critical challenge. We aim to develop mild photocatalytic systems to incorporate CO2 into organic molecules.

Synthetic reactions for DNA-encoded libraries (DELs) DNA-encoded libraries (DELs) represent a powerful technology that has found widespread application in medicinal chemistry as a time- and cost-effective platform for the discovery of new therapeutic candidates. To develop DELs platforms, on-DNA chemistries are required to incorporate multifunctional building-blocks from readily available chemicals. However, the idiosyncratic nature of the encoding DNA results in reaction requirements that are incompatible with a significant portion of the conventional medicinal chemistry toolbox. Given the mild and water-compatible conditions, we use our novel photochemical methods to functionalize DNA conjugates for the synthesis of DELs.

https://nappichem.com/publications

Photocatalytic Deoxygenative Z-selective olefination of aliphatic alcohols Nat. Commun. 2025, accepted. ChemRxiv, 2024, doi:10.26434/chemrxiv-2024-cch7s

Metal-free Deoxygenative Coupling of Alcohol-Derived Benzoates and Pyridines for Small Molecules and DNA-Encoded Libraries Synthesis. Chem. Sci., 2022, 13, 6982-6989
Supramolecular components based on cyclic peptides for bionanotechnological applications
Supervisor: Juan Granja

The technological applications of nanomaterials have grown exponentially in recent years thanks to their novel properties. Particularly relevant are those that are biocompatible due to their undeniable influence on improving our quality of life, such as supramolecular drugs.

This novel therapeutic strategy is based on the use of nontoxic components with self-assembly properties that, under appropriate conditions, form the supramolecular drug responsible for its therapeutic action. In this sense, cyclic peptide nanotubes are very promising materials on which our group has been actively working.

One of the unique properties of these tubular structures is the presence of two types of surfaces, the internal and the external, whose properties can be tuned by selecting the appropriate sequence. These special properties allow us to develop peptides that can interact with specific cell organelles to trigger different biological responses.

We are seeking highly motivated candidates with creativity, initiative, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in synthesis and chemical biology will be strongly valued.

References:

Self-Assembling Cyclic Peptide Nanotubes for the delivery of doxorubicin into drug-resistant cancer cells (submitted)

Photo-assembling cyclic peptides for dynamic light-driven peptide nanotubes. Chem. 2023, 9, 3365

Self-healing Cyclic Peptide Hydrogels. J. Mat. Chem. B, 2023, 11, 606-623,

Molecular Plumbing to bend of Self-assembling Peptide Nanotubes. ANIE, 2021, 60, 18838-18844
Design, synthesis and characterization of large aromatic molecules and nanographenes
Supervisor: Diego Peña

We are looking for a proactive, independent, and enthusiastic researcher with experience in synthetic organic chemistry and interest in molecular materials and on-surface synthesis. In more detail, the researcher is expected to carry out research in the framework of ERC Synergy Grant MolDAM (Molecular Devices by Atom Manipulation).

MolDAM is an interdisciplinary project co-led by the CiQUS PI, Prof. Diego Peña, at the USC, jointly with the specialist in Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Dr Leo Gross at IBM Research (Switzerland) and Prof. Jascha Repp at the Universität Regensburg (Germany).

MolDAM aims at building and controlling individual molecules through their manipulation with AFM.

Science, 2022, 377, 6603, 298-301

Adv. Mater., 2022, 2110099

ANIE, 2021, 60, 26346-26350

ANIE, 2021, 60, 25224-25229

Electroactive Covalent Organic Frameworks as electrodes for metal-ion batteries
Supervisor: Manuel Souto

Organic materials have received much attention as alternative electrodes for metal-ion batteries because of their high theoretical capacity, resource availability, and sustainability. Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) have emerged in the past few years as promising organic electrode materials due to their high stability, tunable porosity, and outstanding chemical and structural versatility. In this project, the researcher will synthesize new redox-active COFs based on unexplored building blocks to study their electrochemical performance as cathodes in different types of rechargeable batteries in the framework of the ERC-StG ELECTROCOFS project.

We are looking for a researcher with experience in synthetic chemistry and/or electrochemistry.

References:

"Organic electrodes based on redox-active covalent organic frameworks for lithium batteries”.

Chem. Commun, 2024,

"Tuning the electrochemical performance of covalent organic framework cathodes for Li- and Mg-based batteries: the influence of electrolyte and binder”.

J. Mater. Chem. A , 2023,

Development of Selective DNA Junction Binders for Targeted Anticancer Therapy
Supervisor: Miguel Vázquez

The recognition of DNA secondary structures is a promising strategy in anticancer therapy. Our research focuses on artificial metallopeptides, particularly peptide helicates, as highly selective binders of DNA junctions (3WJ and 4WJ). These structures play critical roles in DNA repair pathways and genomic stability, making them attractive therapeutic targets.

Our project investigates the design, synthesis, and mechanistic study of selective DNA junction binders to disrupt DNA processing in cancer cells. Using a multidisciplinary approach that integrates coordination chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry, and structural biophysics, we aim to develop novel metal-based anticancer agents..

Our reserch group is part of the International Research Network (IRN) on Nucleic Acid Junctions, collaborating with leading European experts in the field, including Prof. David Monchaud and Prof. Mike Hannon.

Ideally, the candidate will have a background in chemical biology and supramolecular chemistry, with experience in metallosupramolecular systems and nucleic acid interaction.

Methods, 2023, 219, 30-38

Chem. Commun, 2022, 7769-7772

Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2021,60, 8859-8866

Bioconjugate Chem, 2021,1564-1569

Development of Advanced Molecular Materials for Thermal Switching
Supervisor: Francisco Rivadulla

The goal of this project is the development of thermal switches based on molecular materials, i.e. organic flexible materials, liquid crystal mesophases, etc in which different thermal states can be induced by an external stimulus (electric field, light, etc).

The researcher is expected to develop a multidisciplinary project in molecular materials synthesis and physical properties (mechanical and thermal) of polymers and other organic materials.

Candidates are required to have experience in organic and polymer synthesis.

References:

Interfacial Thermal Resistive Switching in (Pt,Cr)/SrTiO3 Devices. ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 2024, 16, 15043-15049

Mechanisms of Electrical Switching of Ultrathin CoO/Pt Bilayers. Nano Lett, 2024, 1471-1476

Interfacial Thermal Resistive Switching in (Pt,Cr)/SrTiO3 Devices. ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 2024, 16, 15043-15049

Light-induced bi-directional switching of thermal conductivity in azobenzene-doped liquid crystal mesophases. J. Mater. Chem. C, 2023, Adv. Article
Self-Replicating Nanostructures for Biomedicine
Supervisor: Ignacio Insua

This project aims to develop self-replicating molecules, capable of making copies of themselves, with application as biomedical tools. Self-replication allows the design of next-generation nano-therapeutics with advanced properties like targeted switch-on and autonomous amplification of their therapeutic action.

The candidate will develop a multidisciplinary project combining peptide chemistry, supramolecular nanotechnology and biological assays - experience in these topics will be highly valued.

References:

- Structural screening of short peptide amphiphiles with autocatalytic self-replication,

ChemSystemsChem 2025, e202400094

- Supramolecular fibrillation of peptide amphiphiles induces environmental responses in aqueous droplets,

Nature Communications, 2021, 12, 6421
Development of DNA origami nanostructures for the functionalization of nanocarriers
Supervisor: Beatriz Pelaz

The structure and pair base correspondence of DNA can be employed for the design of tailormade nanostructures, this technique is known as DNA origami.

This technology is based on the computer assisted design of nanostructures and the corresponding DNA sequences. The precise conformation of those structures will allow to control the steric functionalization of nanoparticles.

The applicant will carry out research in the framework of the project ERC-Starting Grant “SPACING” – (SPAtially-Controlled lIgand arraNGement by origami-based nanoprinters, 2016-2026).

References:

ACS Nano, 2017, 11(3), 2397-2402

ChemBioChem, 2017, 18, 1873–1885

Molecules, 2021, 26, 2287
Expanding the Chemistry's Frontier: Synthetic Catalysis in Living Cells
Supervisor: J.L. Mascareñas & María Tomás

Since the dawn of time, Nature has captivated chemists, serving as a boundless source of inspiration for addressing everyday human challenges. One of these challenges is precisely understanding and manipulating biological processes in the living world in a precise and controlled manner. This requires the development of tailored chemical tools that allow to perform bioorthogonal chemical reactions within living systems without generating undesired effects.

Very recently, the host group has made significant contributions to implement new human-designed catalytic transformations in live environments, using metal catalysis, and more recently photocatalysis. One of the advantages of this last strategy derives from its stimuli-controlled nature, which allows for the spatiotemporal control of the reactivity.

This proposal intends to discover and develop new strategies for performing bioorthogonal reactions in live cell in a stimuli-controlled manner. Transformations might offer unpredictable opportunities to understand and manipulate cell biology and to develop novel therapeutic tools.

We look for motivated and creative candidates with passion for both Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology to overcome the proposed challenges.

JACS, 2024, 146, 5, 2895

ANIE, 2021, 60, 22017

Catalyst confinement for sustainable green hydrogen production and metal-air batteries development
Supervisor: María Giménez

The development of electrocatalysts for the production of clean and sustainable energy that are not only highly-active but also extremely durable is a great challenge. Electrochemical technologies heavily rely on rare, ‘endangered’ chemical elements, such as Pt, scarcity of which is creating a bottle-neck for future technological progress.

While the catalytic activity of metals is maximized using carbon supports that enhance metals’ dispersion and provide good electrical contact, useful lifespan of any, including state of the art electrocatalysts, is ultimately limited by durability of metal nanoparticles that gradually become dissolved, detached, poisoned or deactivated.

Through electrocatalyst confinement, we are interested on developing new strategies to increase life spam of non-precious based electrocatalyst for production of green hydrogen (electrolyzers) and the development of bifunctional air electrodes for metal-air batteries.

Adv. Sustainable Syst., 2024, 8(5), 2300607

Chem. Sci., 2022, 13, 9706-9712

ChemSusChem, 2021, 19, 4973-4984

Adv. Mater., 2016, 28, 41, 9103