Postdoc position in Optical DNA mapping

Information about the project
Infectious diseases is a global threat to human health, mostly due to the rapid spread of bacteria that are resistant to common antibiotics. Optical DNA mapping (ODM) is a method to visualize sequence information on long DNA molecules. We have developed a protocol that uses ODM to identify bacteria. We have demonstrated that it can be used to identify a variety of different bacterial species (see Müller, V. et al. ACS Infectious Diseases (2020)) and also that it can be used for sub-typing of E. coli and K. pneoumoniae with very high precision, even in unculrutred urine samples. The goal of the current project is two-fold. We want to demonstrate that the method can be used for subtyping also for other bacterial species. We also want to optimize the experimental protocol for clinical use. This will be done in close collaboration with both clinicians and bioinformaticians.

Information about the Chemical Biology division
How do biomolecules work in cellular environments? In the Chemical Biology division, we combine and develop protein engineering, synthetic chemistry, and state-of-the-art biophysical methods (spectroscopy, live cell imaging and nanotechnology) to address cutting-edge questions in biology to meet medical challenges related to human health. Our joint expertise is strategic and spans from molecular biophysics of single molecules to cell and organism biology. The division is placed in the Department of Biology and Biological Engineering.

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility as postdoc is to perform your own research in the research group. The focus in your research will revolve arount Fluorescence microscopy, sample preparation and data analysis.

The position may also include 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.

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

Qualifications
To qualify for the position as Postdoc, you must have a PhD degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Microbiology or similar. Hands on experience with fluorescence microscopy is beneficial but not mandatory. Knowledge of/experience with image analysis in Matlab is also meritorious.

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the work, you are expected to have good collaboration skills and be able to communicate in English, both orally and in writing. Swedish is not a requirement but Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20210490 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.

Learn more and apply on Chalmers website: https://www.chalmers.se/sv/om-chalmers/Arbeta-pa-Chalmers/lediga-tjanster/Sidor/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=9907&rmlang=SE

Application deadline: 10 December, 2021

For questions, please contact:
Fredrik Westerlund, Professor, Chemical Biology
Email: fredrikw@chalmers.se
Phone: +46 31 772 30 49

*** 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!