PhD student position in Biotechnology and Living materials

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student candidate to join our group of researchers that is busy exploring the huge yeast biodiversity in nature, with the aim of identifying and characterizing non-conventional yeast species with biotechnologically interesting traits. Such traits include for example the ability to grow on specific carbon sources or the capacity to produce valuable metabolites. We also work with cell factory design and development of both baker's yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and non-conventional yeast species, where the strains are intended for various applications including bioproduction of fuels, chemicals and materials.

Information about the project:
The overarching aim of this PhD student project is to pioneer the development of materials that promote yeast growth and metabolite production. These living materials are intended for future food applications and must be efficient, sustainable and safe. The research will include investigation of yeast genetics and physiology, studies of microbial interactions, assessment of yeast performance across different material matrices, and employment of advanced analytical techniques like GC/MS. This project is highly exploratory and cross-disciplinary in nature, and will be carried out in collaboration with researchers and experts from Aalto University, RISE, and Axfoundation.

Information about the department:
At the Department of Life Sciences (LIFE), we conduct research, innovation and education to enable a biobased society and improve human health. Our topics cover both basic and applied aspects of life sciences in the areas of systems biology, chemical biology, industrial biotechnology and food and nutrition science. We develop and apply cutting edge experimental and computational technologies. Our researchers are discovering how biomolecules, living cells and the whole organisms' function and respond to the environment. Based on that knowledge, we engineer biological systems to produce foods, drugs and chemicals in an innovative and sustainable way. We also use this knowledge to pioneer new methods for prevention, diagnostic and treatment of human diseases, often in close collaboration with complementary competences from society, industry and academia. Our most important contribution to the society is the new generations of young scientists trained to be future leaders. Altogether, our department is a home to life sciences, where innovative ideas and creative people grow.

The PhD student position is placed at the Division of Industrial Biotechnology, which is highly international and counts ~40 members. Research activities at the division focus on utilization of renewable raw materials for a sustainable production of fuels and chemicals. Our portfolio of research project spans from fundamental research to technology development and lab-scale applications, and includes fermentation technology, metabolic engineering and enzyme discovery. We have an extensive instrument platform for analytics, molecular biology, fermentation and protein production and purification, which is fully available for the project. In addition, core facilities with advanced equipment are available within both the Department and at the University campus.

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility as a PhD student will be to pursue your own doctoral studies within the scope of the project. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts, to write project reports and scientific manuscripts and to share your research results both in presentations at the division/department and at international conferences. A PhD student position at Chalmers also includes active participation in PhD courses as well as teaching on undergraduate level and/or performing other departmental duties. Being part of the Division of Industrial Biotechnology also involves taking responsibility for side tasks such as keeping the lab and instruments in good condition.

Qualifications
The candidate must hold a masters degree in microbiology, biotechnology/bioengineering, molecular biology or other related disciplines. University courses or equivalent in (eukaryotic) microbiology, molecular biology, genome editing, analytical chemistry and material science are qualifying merits.

Mandatory experiences and skills include proven work experience in a biotechnology laboratory setting and theoretical knowledge and practical experience of molecular biology and microbiology.
Hands-on experience in microbial cultivation and analytical techniques including GC/MS are highly qualifying merits.

A successful candidate is also able to conduct experiments independently, take own initiatives and discuss/develop own ideas, is creative and have a problem-solving ability. Excellent cooperation and social abilities are important, and the candidate must also be highly proficient in spoken and written English.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

For more information about what we offer and the application procedure, please visit chalmers webpage.
See link: PhD student position in Biotechnology and Living materials

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!