Postdoc in microbial robustness

Information about the research and the division
The post doc position is placed at the Division of Industrial Biotechnology within the Department of Biology and Biological Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology. The Industrial Biotechnology group is a young, dynamic and international group of researchers established in 2008 and counts now around 40 members. We discover, engineer and apply enzymes and microorganisms. The common denominator of the research activities in the group is to optimize the use of renewable raw materials for the sustainable production of fuels, chemicals and materials within the main concept of biorefinery.

The research performed within the group spans from fundamental research, technology development and lab-scale application: this ensures deep knowledge of the studied systems, leading to rational development and optimization of the respective applications. The research fields include production of biofuels,chemicals and material via fermentation and enzymatic refining of biomass and bioelectrochemical systems. The division has an extensive instrument platform for analytics, molecular biology, protein production and purification, fermentation which are all available for the project. In addition, core facilities with advanced equipment are available within both the Department and at the University campus.

-The details of the departmental research activities may be found here.


About the project
The overarching goal of the research program is to achieve a molecular understanding of microbial robustness and convert that knowledge to meet the urgent need of efficient industrial catalysts. Here, using yeast as the microbial platform, the natural and industrially exhibited yeast diversity and differently laboratory evolved strains that exhibit different robustness fitness will be taken as a starting point for identifying molecular traits behind microbial robustness. Both the genetic capacity of the cells and the phenotypic expression, plasticity and heterogeneity will be investigated, we are especially interested in understanding single-cell variations and development of subpopulations. Cells will be grown under industrially relevant conditions, including growth in biomass derived streams, at high substrate and product concentrations, nutrient limitations and zero growth. The knowledge acquired will form the basis for strain engineering strategies to further improve yeast as a robust cell factory.

Major responsibilities
As a post doc you will contribute to develop a range of methods for studying microbial robustness focusing on high through put methodology. Major research tasks include elucidation of microbial traits that convey microbial robustness using natural variation in domesticated yeast strains and evolved strains. This knowledge will be used for identification of molecular markers for robustness and further strain engineering. Studies of cell population heterogeneity will also be included. Data analysis of collected data using different systems biology tools will be included.

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
The candidate should have a PhD in Systems Biology or Biotechnology/Bioengineering, or related disciplines. The degree should generally not be older than three years.
Strong foundation in Systems biology, bioinformatics and understanding of yeast physiology is necessary. Extensive hands-on experience with collection and analysis of large omic data sets. Experience in genome editing and studies on single cell level is mandatory experiences and skills. Insights into industrial fermentation processes and experience in fermentation technology and strain engineering is considered a merit.

The candidate needs to be self-motivated, ambitious, enthusiastic, creative, well-organised and have good technical abilities. The candidate should be able to put up new experimental procedures and be good in finding new solutions to technical problems. Excellent problem-solving skills, collaborative and social abilities are highly important. The candidate should have strong analytical skills, and a keen interest in the interpretation of complex data. Ability to work in teams and a drive for own development is also important. Good communication skills in English are necessary.

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

Application deadline: 15 August 2021. We are evaluating applications as they come in and will close the opening August 15 or earlier if we found the right candidate.

For questions, please contact:
1. Professor Lisbeth Olsson, Dept. of Biology and Biological Engineering - Industrial Biotechnology, lisbeth.olsson@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. ***