Postdoc in single molecule analysis of DNA repair

Are you an expert in DNA-protein analysis? Do you want to join an explorative research group and develop a state-of-the-art tool for single-molecule DNA-protein interaction studies?
We are now looking for a talented, independent researcher that will work in a well-funded project on DNA repair. Combining traditional biophysical and biochemical methods with a novel single-molecule nanofluidics technique, we want to better understand the intriguing mechanisms of Non-Homologous End-Joining (NHEJ) and Homologous Recombination (HR) in bacterial and human cells. The ideal candidate has broad hands-on experience in research within biotechnology, strong project management skills and an analytical mindset.

Information about the research
This postdoc position is part of a large ongoing project in the group, funded by an ERC consolidator grant, where we study interactions between DNA and proteins. We are particularly interested in understanding how proteins interact with DNA ends, which is crucial in repair of DNA double strand breaks for instance. We are also very interested in exploring new areas, where our novel single-molecule nanofluidics method could potentially provide important insights into biological systems. As the project combines both fundamental research on biomolecular interactions and development of nanofluidics as a novel single-molecule tool for such studies, candidates with a versatile competence profile are highly desirable. We combine traditional biophysics and biochemistry techniques, such as SPR and EMSA, with single molecule analysis, trying to better understand the intriguing and unknown details of DNA repair. We are experts in studying DNA-protein interactions on the single-molecule level in nanofluidic channels and are looking for a strong addition to the group, who will bring broad knowledge and expertise in DNA-protein biophysics.

Would you define yourself as a challenge-driven and motivated researcher with a passion for fundamental understanding of DNA and proteins? Do you want to explore an important topic and make an impact on the research field? If yes, then we would love to get in touch with you!

Major responsibilities
The postdoc will work with analysis of DNA-protein interactions using traditional biochemical and biophysical techniques in combination with single-molecule nanofluidics. The project might also include protein production and purification and live cell imaging of bacteria, depending on the expertise of the person.

For all postdocs at Chalmers
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 degree in biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology or related disciplines. Experience with single DNA molecule analysis, fluorescence microscopy, , microbiology, bulk methods for DNA analysis, SPR, EMSA and protein production is meritorious.
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: 1 April 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!