Introduction

The University of Camerino invites expressions of interest from postdoctoral researchers wishing to apply for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 in the field of coordination chemistry and metal-based drugs. This research opportunity is hosted by Prof. Maura Pellei at the School of Science and Technology and focuses on the design and development of next-generation transition metal complexes with enhanced tumor selectivity.

Supervisor 

Prof. Maura Pellei is a researcher in the Chemistry Division at the University of Camerino, with a strong scientific profile in coordination chemistry and metal-based therapeutic agents. Her research activity focuses on transition metal complexes with anticancer and antibacterial properties, as demonstrated by numerous high-impact publications in the field. She is actively involved in national and international research networks on metal-based drugs, contributing to the advancement of coordination and organometallic chemistry for biomedical applications.

Research Group and Facilities

The research is conducted in laboratories equipped for organic and inorganic synthesis, including experimental work under inert atmosphere conditions. The available instrumentation supports advanced chemical characterization and includes NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, and UV-visible analysis.

The research group operates within international collaborations in coordination chemistry and metal-based therapeutics, with activities spanning anticancer and antibacterial agents as well as applications in inorganic catalysis.

Research Topic and Project Idea

The project, entitled “Design and Development of Next-Generation Transition Metal Complexes with Enhanced Tumor Selectivity”, focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of new biofunctionalized ligands and their coordination with main-group and transition metal ions.

The research investigates ligands containing different donor atoms and explores their coordination properties, with the aim of developing novel metal-based compounds with potential anticancer and antibacterial activity. Particular attention is given to the relationship between chemical structure and biological activity, contributing to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies based on coordination chemistry.

Candidate Profile and Career Development

The position is suitable for candidates with a background in organic and inorganic synthesis and coordination chemistry.

The fellowship will provide the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment where coordination chemistry intersects with biology, medicine, and materials science, supporting the development of research ideas in the field of metal-based drugs. The candidate will benefit from access to laboratories, instrumentation, and expertise, contributing to the advancement of translational research in this area.

Apply now

Apply now at Unicam for your MSCA Fellowhip.  
If you need further information please contact the supervisor Prof. Maura Pellei - maura.pellei@unicam.it