Postdoc in single molecule analysis of DNA repair

The Department of Biology and Biological Engineering was started on 1 January 2015. The department conducts research, education and utilisation in biotechnology with the aim of promoting lifelong health and contributing to a sustainable bio-based society.
The department has in a short time established a research culture defined by extensive publishing, citation rates and external grants, as well as successful utilisation, for example through start-ups.
The department consists of four divisions where outstanding research in industrial biotechnology, systems and synthetic biology, chemical biology, and food and nutrition science is conducted as well as a division of infrastructures.
Nearly 200 people from 30 countries are active within the department. The work environment is characterised by creativity, job satisfaction, collaboration and responsibility.

The Department of Biology and Biological Engineering has summarised its mission:
• To be an attractive environment for frontline researchers in biotechnology linked to health and sustainability
• To deliver excellent research results and innovative solutions for a sustainable society
• To offer excellent training that develops creative engineers and researchers
• To be a major contributing factor to Chalmers' good reputation internationally


We are looking for a talented, independent researcher that will work in a large project on using nanofluidics to study DNA-protein interactions on the single DNA molecule level. The overall project requires many different skills and we are therefore looking for a person that complements the group in one way or the other.

Information about the research
This post doc position is part of a large ongoing project in the group where we use nanofluidics in combination with fluorescence microscopy to study interactions between DNA and proteins on the single DNA molecule level. The project is funded by an ERC consolidator grant and the Swedish research council.
We focus on reactions occurring on DNA ends, where our technique is particularly powerful. Repair of double stranded DNA breaks is one area of research where we put particular focus, but we also constantly look for new areas where our method is of use. We complement our analysis with other single molecule techniques, such as optical tweezers and AFM, as well as standard bulk methods like EMSA and SPR.

We are also interested in method development where we wish to develop nanofluidic devices with improved functionalities as well as designing and purifying DNA substrates that allow us to answer cutting edge research questions.

Major responsibilities
The Post Doc will work with single molecule analysis of DNA-protein interactions using nanofluidics and complementing techniques. The person might also work with bulk methods for studying DNA-protein interactions, protein production and purification depending on the expertise of the person.

Your major responsibility as postdoc is to perform your own research in a research group. 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 successful candidate should have a PhD in biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology or related disciplines. The degree should generally not be older than three years.
Experience with single DNA molecule analysis, fluorescence microscopy, bulk methods for DNA analysis and protein production is a strong asset. 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.

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 20200002 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 2021

For questions, please contact:
Professor Fredrik Westerlund, Chemical Biology, fredrikw@chalmers.se, 031-7723049

*** 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!