Predoctoral Researcher - Computational Enzyme Design Glycoengineering

The Biological Chemistry and Biotechnology Group at IQS, Universitat Ramon Llull (Barcelona, Spain) invites applications for a PhD position in computational glycobiology, enzyme design, starting as soon is possible.

Our research aims to uncover and reprogram the molecular principles that govern protein–carbohydrate interactions and enzyme catalysis
. We integrate structural bioinformatics, molecular modeling, and artificial intelligence to study biomolecular recognition and to design enzymes with biomedical and biotechnological applications.

The group is embedded in the IQS Department of Bioengineering
, a multidisciplinary environment at the interface of biomedicine, chemistry, nanotechnology and biotechnology
, and maintains active collaborations with leading international partners.

GQBB - Biological and Biotechnological Chemistry | IQS

Planas Lab - Laboratory of Biochemistry - GQBB

Computational Enzyme Design for Glycoengineering

This project focuses on modeling and engineering carbohydrate-active enzymes for applications in biomedicine and biotechnology. It will combine structure-based modeling, molecular dynamics, and computational design to understand and reprogram enzyme function.

• Modeling enzyme–substrate interactions and catalytic mechanisms
• Expanding de BINDSCAN protocol for computer assisted protein engineering
• Designing improved or novel biocatalysts
• Collaborating with experimental groups for validation

• Full-time predoctoral fellowship (for competitive position).
• Access to state-of-the-art computational infrastructure and collaborative projects.
• International research opportunities
  , including short stays at partner institutions.
• Mentoring, professional development, and integration into a dynamic interdisciplinary environment in Barcelona.

Funding:
This position is contingent upon obtaining a competitive PhD fellowship (e.g.,
FI (AGAUR), FPU (Spanish Ministry of Science), or internal IQS doctoral scholarships
).

The group will actively support outstanding candidates during the fellowship application process.