PhD student position in Enzymatic hydrolysisi

Information about the division
The Division of Industrial Biotechnology is a highly international group, which since its establishment in 2008 has been very successful and now counts ~ 40 members. Research activities at the division focus on utilization of renewable raw materials for a sustainable production of fuels and chemicals. The research performed within the group spans from fundamental research to technology development and lab-scale applications, and includes enzymology and enzyme discovery, fermentation technology, metabolic engineering, bioelectrochemistry, and algal biotechnology. The division has an extensive instrument platform for analytics, molecular biology, fermentation and protein production and purification. In addition, core facilities with advanced equipment are available within both the Department and at the University campus.

Information about the project
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student candidate for a project with the overall aim to use enzymatic hydrolysis to improve the softwood-to-ethanol process. The fields of research for the position are microbiology, enzymology and biorefining. The project aim is to identify and address the bottlenecks of enzymatic hydrolysis of mildly pretreated spruce. This will be achieved through a combination of enzyme discovery, production and characterization and analysed by advanced imaging techniques. We target to simultaneously optimize steam-pretreatment (STEX) and enzymatic hydrolysis. To overcome increased substrate recalcitrance, we will identify and characterize accessory enzymes that can degrade bonds contributing to recalcitrance. By tailoring specific enzyme cocktails and establishing advanced designs of enzymatic hydrolysis, this project will contribute to the intensification of the softwood-to-ethanol processes. This is a collaborative project with Lund University that will be responsible for the steam pretreatment and characterization of the recalcitrance of the biomass.

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility as a PhD student is 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.

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

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's degree in biotechnology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry or similar. You have proven work experience in a biotechnology laboratory setting. Theoretical knowledge and practical experience of enzymology.

The successful candidate is 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 candidare must also be highly proficient in spoken and written English.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Our offer to you
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the dynamic city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20190731 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, eg. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 6 April 2020.
The selection procedure takes place continuously and we will close the position as soon as the right candidate has been identified.

For questions, please contact:
Professor Lisbeth Olsson, Industrial Biotechnology, lisbeth.olsson@chalmers.se, +46(0)31 772 3805
Dr. Vera Novy, Industrial Biotechnology, vera.novy@chalmers.se

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