Yao Guiyang's Lab
The research group will mainly focus on 1) the use of new organic chemistry modality to solve the asymmetric synthesis of non-canonical amino acids, which can be applied to accomplish the chemical synthesis of natural peptide molecules; 2) the development of efficient synthesis strategies and novel coupling reagents to improve the "difficult sequence" peptide molecules; 3) the study of the bio-availability and druggability of peptide molecules employing peptide drug design, metabolism and pharmacological methods; 4) the development of chemical and biological methods for study of peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) based on new type of payloads. We will drive our areas of scientific leadership and in partnership with world experts which provides our group with the unique opportunity to stay at the forefront of science.
Team members
YAO Guiyang
(co-) Principal Investigator
During his PhD theses, YAO investigated the total synthesis and structure activity relationship (SAR) of depsipeptide Coibmaide A in the research group of Prof. Liao at the Southeast University and Prof. Su at SIAT. This was followed by a postdoctoral stay at TU Berlin which was supported by AvH foundation and "UniSysCat", his research was mainly focused on the total synthesis and SAR of natural bicyclic peptides (Phalloidin and Amanitin) which envisions applying his skills into drug discovery, especially to develop novel drug conjugates between various modalities such as small molecules or peptides (cell penetrating peptides and cell targeted peptides) linked to amatoxins and phallotoxins. Currently, he is starting his independent career in Greater Bay Area Institute of Precision Medicine (Guangzhou).
WE ARE HIRING!

We always offer interesting topics for postdoctoral. Biologists and chemists are always welcome to apply for Postdoc-positions. Work in the Center for Innovative Drug Discovery comprises various techniques like CADD, phage display, total synthesis of natural peptides and drug conjugates. Besides excellent equipment and exciting projects we offer a friendly and family-like working atmosphere. 

Job Description

We are seeking several postdoctoral to join our team in Guangzhou, China. This is a hands-on position with responsibility for the design, synthesis, and analysis of molecules relevant to peptide synthesis , oligonucleotide conjugates and oligonucleotide delivery. The ideal candidate will have experience in medicinal chemistry, peptide chemistry, nucleic acid therapeutics, and bioconjugation. The candidate is expected to be a strong team player, who enjoys scientific discovery with the ability to communicate and collaborate in an interdisciplinary environment. The candidate should be thoughtful, organized, detail oriented, and curious with a thirst for learning and eagerness to solve hard problems.

Primary Responsibilities:

·         Design, synthesis and analysis of peptides, nucleic acids, linkers, ligands, and oligonucleotides relevant to peptide drug conjugates (PDCs)

·         Apply modern organic synthesis techniques and utilize current medicinal chemistry practices to solve problems relevant to PDCs

·         Design and develop approaches to enable tissue and cell specific delivery of PDCs

·         Lead/participate in drug discovery project teams, analysis of experimental data and providing medicinal chemistry as well as drug discovery expertise

·         Preparation and communication of research results in both oral and written formats

·         Mentor lab associates to enhance their technical capabilities

Qualifications, Required Experience & Skills:

·        Ph.D. in organic chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology or related discipline with experience in peptide chemistry, oligonucleotide, nucleic acid chemistry, and/or bioconjugation

·         Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry demonstrated by publications, patents, and presentations

·         Experience with peptide, carbohydrate, and automated synthesis chemistries is highly desirable

·         Familiarity with relevant biological disciplines, drug discovery screening, interpretation of functional readouts, and the ability to integrate these disciplines into the design of new bioactive compounds

·         Proven ability to conduct self-directed research, and to work effectively in a dynamic environment with a diverse team of co-workers

·         Solid written and oral communication skills, enthusiasm, integrity, self-motivation, strong interpersonal skills, and attention to detail are necessary