Post doc position in algae molecular and synthetic biology

The Department of Green Technology (IGT) of the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense,  invites applications for a fully funded post doc position (1 year with extension option for additional 2 years) in algae synthetic biology. This position is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, to harness nature-inspired solutions and to engineer novel strains of photosynthetic microalgae for sustainable industrial applications.

The research group and the research environment
The SDU Algae Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology team , is a young and international research group led by Associate Prof. Michele Fabris . The group is part of SDU Biotechnology a multidisciplinary research division within IGT dedicated to developing innovative, sustainable solutions from biological systems to provide food, feed, chemicals, and renewable energy.

The Algae Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology group has a strong interest in understanding molecular and genetic basis of algal metabolism and in translating this fundamental knowledge into the development of novel algae strains with enhanced or new traits. The group has laboratories equipped for molecular biology and algal cultivation, with direct access to flow cytometry, advanced microscopy and analytical chemistry facilities within IGT and SDU. The research environment is inclusive, multicultural and prioritizes equality in all its activities. As such, applications for this position are encouraged from candidates of any cultural background and gender.

The position
You will join a young and international team deeply invested in understanding the biology of algae and in providing bio-based innovative and sustainable solutions. Here, you will carry out creative, innovative, and high-impact research and you will be involved in national and international collaborations. You will have access to SDU’s training opportunities and you will be involved in graduate and undergraduate student guidance.

The project
You will work on an exciting project aimed at unveiling novel traits in the isoprenoid biosynthesis of non-model organisms and at domesticating them, by re-designing them in photosynthetic diatoms suitable for industrial cultivation. You will employ functional genetics, analytical chemistry and synthetic biology to answer impactful research questions and to develop engineered algal strains with improved biosynthesis.  Through this project, you will contribute to the generation of novel and sustainable sourcing platforms for high-value compounds.  The project involves international collaborations and exchanges with the research groups of Associate Prof. Eva Arnspang Christensen (SDU Biotechnology) and Assistant Prof. Bogumil Karas (Western University, Canada), who will offer expertise and training opportunities in advanced microscopy and algae synthetic genomics, respectively.

Requirements:

• PhD in molecular biology, synthetic biology, biotechnology, or related fields
• Demonstrated experience in algae, plant or micro-eukaryotes molecular biology, metabolic engineering, or synthetic biology
• Demonstrated experience in designing and assembling multi-gene DNA constructs and/or genome editing
• Experience in analytical chemistry (e.g. 13 C-based metabolic flux analysis, GC-MS, LC-MS)
• Bioinformatics and computational skills complementary to wet-lab research, data analysis and visualization (RNA seq data analysis, R, Python)
• Demonstrated capacity to independently design, plan and carry out research projects, and to solve scientific problems creatively
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
• Demonstrated capacity to work as part of a team and foster collaboration
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Deadline for application: 06/02/2023

For further information: contact Associate Professor Michele Fabris, phone: +45 65508306, e-mail: [email protected] .

Application, salary and conditions of employment
One year position with the possibility to be extended for additional two years, with flexible starting date, ideally in May/June 2023.

The employment is governed by the Protocol on PhD Research Fellows signed by the Danish Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations), Cirkulære om overenskomst for Akademikere i staten 2015 .

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link below. Attached files must be in Adobe PDF or Word format. Each box can only contain a single file of max. 10 Mb. We use shortlisting in the evaluation of applications.

Short listing will be used in the evaluation process. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

Please read the guideline for applicants.

An application must include:

• Completed application form (Link to Application Form )
• Curriculum vitae including publication list
• Motivation letter outlining research interests and previous research experience in relation to the advertised position, specifically addressing the listed requirements. Please attach the cover letter to "Application Material" under " Research plan"
• Contact details of at least 2 referees
• Copies of bachelor diploma and transcript
• Copies of master’s diploma and transcript
• Copies of PhD diploma and transcript

The University encourages all interested persons to apply, regardless of age, gender, religious affiliation or ethnic background.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.