Applications are invited for appointment as Postdoctoral Researcher in Antibody–Drug Conjugates (Job Reference No.: F2025001) in the Laboratory for Synthetic Chemistry and Chemical Biology Limited (the Laboratory), located at the Hong Kong Science Park, to commence as soon as possible, on a 1-year contract basis, with the possibility of renewal. Established as a research unit in Hong Kong, the Laboratory integrates chemical science and biomedical science for the development of new molecular medicines, diagnostic tools and immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of human diseases with a focus on cancer.

The appointee will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of chemists, biologists, and pharmacologists to advance research on antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) for targeted cancer therapy. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel conjugation strategies and payload systems aimed at improving the selectivity and efficacy of anticancer agents. Working within a dynamic international collaboration, the appointee will gain valuable experience in bridging fundamental molecular research with translational studies toward potential clinical applications.

 

Requirements

Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) in Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a closely related discipline. They should have demonstrated expertise in the design, synthesis, and characterization of antibody–drug conjugates or related bioconjugates, and ideally possess experience in linker chemistry, payload conjugation, and bioconjugation strategies for monoclonal antibodies or antibody fragments. Experience with analytical and biophysical characterization methods such as HPLC, LC–MS, ELISA, and cell-based assays would be advantageous. Applicants should be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently as well as in a collaborative team environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential.

Duties

• Design and develop novel ADCs, including linker and payload selection and synthesis.

• Perform conjugation of small-molecule payloads to monoclonal antibodies or antibody fragments.

• Support protein expression and purification for conjugation studies.

• Apply analytical and biophysical techniques to assess ADC stability, efficacy, and in vitro toxicity.

• Collaborate closely with partner laboratories to integrate synthetic, biological, and analytical workflows.

• Prepare reports, present findings at meetings, and contribute to joint publications.

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits.

Applicants should send their cover letter, detailed up-to-date CV, 2 reference letters and the job reference number to the email account HR@hksccb.hk. Reviewing of applications will be continued until the closing date (10 December 2025), or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.

The personal data provided in your application process will be used for recruitment and other employment-related purposes. The personal data may be transferred and disclosed to, and used by HKU Innovation Holdings Limited and The University of Hong Kong for the above purposes.