Postdoc in Microbial Robustness

Information about the project
Two PhD-students and an experienced researcher is working in the research program on microbial robustness that is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. We are looking for a post doc to extend the team. 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. We want to leverage emerging biotechnologies to put new light on how one can understand microbial robustness by establishing new approaches of experimental and theoretical work.

Here, using yeast as the microbial platform, the natural and industrially exhibited yeast diversity and differently laboratory evolved strains that display different performance and fitness will be taken as a starting point for identifying molecular traits behind microbial robustness. Methodologies that can build a foundation towards understanding microbial robustness under different physiological conditions, will be combined, including genomics, single cell RNA seq, measurements of stress markers, cellular protectants, redox and energy status.

Information about 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. 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 bio electrochemical systems. We discover, engineer and apply enzymes and microorganisms. 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.

Major responsibilities
The post doc we will recruit will have the challenging task of building understanding of the role of heterogeneity in fermentation processes and cellular strategies coping with perturbations from the environment. We are looking for a post doc that are dedicated to develop cutting-edge methodology for microbial robustness studies and who can put acquired data into a theoretical framework.

Qualifications
You should have a PhD in Systems Biology or Biotechnology/Bioengineering, or related disciplines. 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.

You need to be self-motivated, ambitious, enthusiastic, creative, well-organised and have good technical abilities. You 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. You 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.

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

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20210609 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: 15 February, 2022. Applications will be evaluated continuously after 21 January, 2022.

For questions, please contact:
Professor Lisbeth Olsson, Dept. of Biology and Biological Engineering - Industrial Biotechnology
E-mail: 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. ***