Researcher - bacteria-phage dynamics and co-evolution in freshwater

Updated: 3 months ago

The prevalence of phage co-infection in natural settings is poorly understood and accordingly the extent and importance of this enigmatic gene flow in phage genome evolution remains unknown. The holder of this position will be part of the ERC starting grant MULTIPHAGE team that address these knowledge gaps in order to develop a deeper understanding of phage-bacteria eco-evolutionary dynamics.
About the position

This researcher position is a part of an ERC starting grant (MULTIPHAGE) and the prospective researcher will be engaged in both laboratory experiments and bioinformatics analyses of large multi-omics datasets. Major part of the project is focused on metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analysis of host-virus dynamics and identifying their infection network in the lake ecosystem: The work tasks also includes fieldwork for lake sampling and sample processing as well as experimental manipulations in the laboratory, alternative analytical methods, biostatistical analyses and scientific communication.


Your profile

Required qualifications:

  • PhD degree (or equivalent) with specialization in microbiology, microbial ecology, molecular biology, bioinformatics or related areas. Proficiency in English speaking and writing.
  • An analytical mind set and a keen interest in aquatic microbial ecology and phage genome evolution.
  • A strong track record of scholar publications
  • Expertise in multi-omics analysis of the bacterial and phage communities.
  • Demonstrated experience of using computer programming languages (UNIX command line and R/python) for multi-omics data analysis.
  • Personal suitability for the work tasks, such as good collaboration skills, ability to work independently and as a member of a group, and flexibility and problem-solving skills will be considered in the assessment of candidates.

Desired qualifications:

  • Experience in phage isolation and long-term handling of phage and bacterial isolates
  • Experience with field work and processing water samples
  • Experience in mentorship of students

About us

The Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment is working with applied environmental science, with a national responsibility for assessing the condition of Swedish surface waters with respect to water chemistry, pollution and aquatic biota. The department has some 140 employees. The research focuses on geochemical and hydrological processes, aquatic ecology and biodiversity, microbial ecology as well as on environmental chemistry and aquatic ecotoxicology.

For more information about the department or division visit: www.slu.se/aquatic-sciences

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/


Location:

Uppsala


Form of employment:

Indefinite-term employment. SLU may use probationary employment.


Scope:

100%


Start date:

15th of February 2024 or according to agreement.


Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 15th of January 2024. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

Your application should include;

  • A cover letter that includes a summary of scientific background and a statement explaining why the candidate is motivated for this specific position and how this research project fit into the applicant’s career plan.
  • A CV summarizing education, research profile, merits, and other qualifying activities.
  • PhD thesis and list of publications (reports, scientific articles, popular science, etc).

We also want contact information for two personal references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail, and phone number). No reference letters need to be submitted with the application.

Please note that all documents should be in English. Interviews will be an important part of the appointment process.


Union representatives:

https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/


The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Contact person

URL to this pagehttps://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=9542&rmlang=UK



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