Postdoc in enzyme discovery and utilization

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher interested in discovering enzymes from unstudied fungi. This project is a collaboration with researchers from South East Asia, and is a great opportunity for both developing collaborative skills and doing cutting-edge research in both fundamental and applied settings.

Information about the research
The project is on enzyme discovery and is a collaboration with our partner in Vietnam. We aim to address the sustainable use of biomass resources, by identifying and developing microorganisms and enzymes that will be the main catalysts in valorization of abundant agroindustrial (cassava streams) and forestry (acacia bark) residues. We will explore the biodiversity in South East Asia to identify unique microorganisms and enzymes to enable this valorization. Novel fungal species able to rapidly degrade the residues will be identified from samples collected in South East Asia. The role of the Chalmers participants is to in detail follow and characterize (using omics techniques) the degradation process to identify which enzymes are produced and active. A detailed characterization of key underexplored enzymes in biomass degradation will be done in connection to this. Enzymes with unique properties (i.e. ability to act at low pH and at high temperature) are the main targets. The project is funded by the Swedish Research Council under the program for developmental research. The Food Industrial Research Insitute in Hanoi, is partner in the project. We have collaborated the last 10 years.

The Division of Industrial Biotechnology is an interdisciplinary and highly international group of researchers established in 2008, currently composed of around 45 members. The research in the division revolves around microbiology and fermentation, enzymology, and molecular biology, with a general focus of using renewable raw materials for the sustainable production of fuels, chemicals and materials. A large variety of scientific instruments are available in our shared laboratory facilities, and in addition several core facilities are available at the university and its close vicinity. The Department of Biology and Biological Engineering (BIO) includes three additional research divisions, and collaboration between these is encouraged.

Major responsibilities
The majority of your working time will be devoted to your own research studies within the project. As a postdoc, you are expected to develop your own ideas, drive the project and communicate scientific results orally as well as in writing. In addition, the position will likely include some departmental work. You should take active part in the collaborative work with our Vietnamese partner and contribute to the project coordination efforts. The project will also involve capacity building among researchers in South East Asia, and transfer of knowledge. There will be the possibility to research visits in South East Asia and to participate in collecting sample for ecological niches in South East Asia together with local researchers.

The position also includes teaching on undergraduate and master's levels as well as supervising master's and/or PhD students to a certain extent. Another important aspect involves collaboration within academia and with society at large. The position is meritorious for future research duties within academia as well as industry/the public sector.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of two years (1+1).

Qualifications
Candidates must hold a PhD degree in biological engineering, biotechnology, biochemistry, microbiology or related fields. The degree should generally not be older than three years. You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.
The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. Swedish is not a requirement but Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

Demonstrated experience in working with carbohydrate-active enzymes, analytical techniques for biomass characterization, and collecting and analyzing large -omics datasets are meritorious.

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 20210190 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• CV, include complete list of publications
• Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences
• 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:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

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

Application deadline: 31 May 2021

For questions, please contact:
Professor, Lisbeth Olsson, Industrial Biotechnology, lisbeth.olsson@chalmers.se, 031-7723805
Associate Professor, Johan Larsbrink, Industrial Biotechnology, johan.larsbrink@chalmers.se, 031-7723839

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