By scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com 
Are you a driven and talented student ready to explore the frontiers of photochemistry, redox chemistry, and chemical biology? The StackoLab at the University of Zurich, Switzerland, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD in Organic Chemistry, with a flexible start date in October–November 2025.
Backed by the prestigious Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF Starting Grant), this PhD opportunity merges organic synthesis, photoactivation, and drug delivery, offering a hands-on role in cutting-edge chemical biology research.
🔬 Project Overview: Photo- and Redox Chemistry Integrated with PROTACs
The research group is tackling a compelling challenge in modern medicine: designing organic dyes that transform into photoactivatable therapeutics, delivering and activating drugs with light as a trigger. These advanced tools enable precise control over biological pathways, allowing scientists to:
- Unravel complex biological processes
- Design novel PROTACs (proteolysis-targeting chimeras)
- Develop next-generation drug delivery systems
- Explore energy-efficient photo-redox transformations
As a PhD candidate, you’ll help bridge the gap between chemistry and biology, integrating the synthetic design of photocages, chemical reactivity, and molecular bioengineering into one of the most innovative research environments in Europe.
🌍 Host Details
- 🏛️ Institution: University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry
- 🇨🇭 Location: Zurich, Switzerland
- 🧪 Research Group: StackoLab (www.stacko.group)
- 📅 Start Date: October–November 2025
- 💰 Funding: Fully funded via SNSF Starting Grant
- 🔗 Apply & Learn More
🎯 What Will You Work On?
This PhD project focuses on the rational design of photo-responsive molecules and bioactive scaffolds, pushing the boundaries of applied photochemistry in healthcare.
Your responsibilities will include:
- ⚗️ Designing and synthesizing organic dyes and photocages
- 💡 Developing light-triggered therapeutic systems
- 🧬 Integrating photoredox chemistry with chemical biology assays
- 🔬 Studying drug release and cellular activation pathways
- 🧪 Testing drug efficacy in biological models
The goal is to advance precision medicine by enabling real-time, light-controlled activation of therapeutic agents.
👤 Who Should Apply?
The StackoLab is looking for motivated, excellent graduate students who are eager to conduct interdisciplinary chemical research and push boundaries in drug discovery.
✅ Ideal Candidate Profile:
- 🎓 MSc (or equivalent) in:
- Organic Chemistry
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Chemical Biology
- Pharmaceutical Sciences or a related discipline
- 🧪 Demonstrated experience in:
- Synthetic organic chemistry
- Laboratory experimentation & reaction optimization
- Basic photochemistry and/or redox catalysis is a plus
- 💬 Fluent in English (written & spoken)
- 🔬 Interest in cross-disciplinary work at the chemistry–biology interface
- 🧠 Problem-solving mindset and attention to detail
No prior experience in photochemistry is mandatory, but curiosity and willingness to learn are essential.
💰 Scholarship & Benefits
This is a fully funded PhD position, backed by the SNSF Starting Grant, providing:
- ✅ Full tuition coverage
- ✅ Monthly stipend (competitive, according to Swiss PhD standards)
- ✅ Research funding (materials, conference travel, collaborations)
- ✅ Mentorship and career development
- ✅ Opportunity to work in Zurich, one of Europe’s most liveable and research-intensive cities
You’ll also have access to:
- 🧫 State-of-the-art chemical synthesis and analysis equipment
- 🧑🔬 A collaborative, international academic environment
- 🌍 Partnerships with biomedical labs and pharmaceutical institutes
🧑🔬 Why Join StackoLab?
StackoLab is an innovative and interdisciplinary team at the University of Zurich. Their research sits at the intersection of organic chemistry, photophysics, and biomedical science, with high-impact publications and translational potential.
By joining, you’ll be:
- Part of a dynamic research environment
- Contributing to next-generation drug discovery platforms
- Learning photoredox chemistry from leaders in the field
- Engaging in rational molecular design with real biomedical applications
📥 How to Apply
Ready to join the frontier of light-activated therapeutics?
To apply:
- 📝 Visit the official site: www.stacko.group
- 📄 Prepare your application package:
- CV
- Cover letter detailing motivation and experience
- Contact details of at least two references
- Academic transcripts
📧 Applications should be submitted via the instructions provided on the official website. Selection will be ongoing until the position is filled.
If you require any help regarding your application, you can visit our page https://scholarshipswithaakash.site/contact-us/
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Is this a fully funded PhD?
✅ Yes! The position is fully funded by the SNSF, covering stipend, tuition, and research costs.
❓ What is the research area?
🔬 The PhD focuses on photo- and redox chemistry, organic synthesis, and chemical biology — especially for therapeutic applications.
❓ Do I need a background in photochemistry?
No, but experience in synthetic organic chemistry is required. Training in photochemistry will be provided.
❓ Can international students apply?
🌍 Absolutely! The University of Zurich welcomes global applicants.
❓ When does the program start?
📅 The preferred start date is October–November 2025.
📌 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Apply
This PhD in Organic Chemistry at the University of Zurich is a rare opportunity to contribute to light-triggered therapies and smart drug design, while training in one of Europe’s most respected research environments. With interdisciplinary mentorship, cutting-edge labs, and world-class funding, you’ll be empowered to innovate and shape the future of precision medicine.
So, if you’re an excellent student🧑🔬 with a passion for organic synthesis, photochemistry, redox reactivity, and chemical biology🧬—this is your moment.
🔗 Apply today at: www.stacko.group
🧑🎓 Author Bio
Mubeen Ali Niaz
Founder of ScholarshipsWithAakash.site
Mubeen is an academic strategist and research advisor helping students secure fully funded scholarships around the globe. He specializes in curating elite STEM opportunities that blend innovation, research impact, and global collaboration.
Stay tuned with Scholarships with Aakash — Where Your Academic Dreams Take Flight.
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