Postdoc in Exploration of the sequence dependence of protein assembly and condensation at high throughput - DTU Bioengineering

The research group of Prof. Alexander K. Buell at the department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU Bioengineering) is looking to recruit a postdoctoral fellow, to start from 1st of June 2023 or as soon as possible afterwards. Our research group is situated within the section of Protein Chemistry and Enzyme Technology (PCET), where world-leading expertise in protein chemistry and structural biology is concentrated. Our laboratory performs cutting-edge experimental research in the field of protein and peptide self-assembly and aggregation. The applied methods include protein engineering as well as various spectroscopy, scattering, biosensing and microfluidics techniques and we work on a range of protein systems the aggregation of which is associated with human disease. The overall aim of our research is to achieve a profound mechanistic understanding of protein and peptide assembly into ordered (fibrillar, crystalline) and disordered (amorphous, liquid droplet) condensed phases and of the physico-chemical factors and sequence determinants that drive it. To achieve these goals, we also collaborate with structural, computational and medical biologists. The motivation behind our research is to enable rational control of such assembly processes in the context of human disorders, nutrition, protein biotechnology as well as in the creation of novel types of functional biomaterials.

Research project
In this project, which is funded by a prestigious ERC consolidator grant (EMMA), the aim is to generate a much better understanding than is currently available of the link between the amino acid sequence of an intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) and its condensation and aggregation properties. We will develop a range of novel high throughput methods to explore IDP assembly sequence space at larger scale than has previously been possible. We also collaborate with world-leading computational and bioinformatic groups in order to extract the maximal possible insight from the data. More detailed information on the project can be obtained upon request or at the interview.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The successful candidate will contribute to the establishment of a new experimental methodology with the aim of probing the relationship between protein sequence and assembly into condensates and aggregates at high throughput. Further tasks will include:

• Assistance in and involvement with other research projects and topics in the group
• Help with the supervision of a PhD student who is also involved in the project
• Taking responsibility for the functioning of research equipment
• Experimental design, data analysis, writing of scientific articles and presentations at conferences and meetings

The successful candidate should

• be interested in the quantitative study of biomolecular systems in vitro
• have documented practical experience with recombinant protein expression and purification, as well as their quantitative biophysical characterisation OR have documented practical experience with handling of RNA, DNA, NGS and in vitro expression
• feel comfortable in an interdisciplinary research environment of openness and collaboration

Have a strong track record in the generation, analysis, interpretation and dissemination of scientific results (as demonstrated by peer reviewed publications, oral presentations, teaching and outreach activities). Experience in advanced data analysis (e.g. with Python) is an advantage.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics or related fields.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 2 years, starting from 1.6.2023 or as soon as possible afterwards.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor Alexander K. Buell, alebu@dtu.dk

Homepages:

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark .

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than the end of

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications
• Contact details fo 2-3 referees that will be contacted if the candidate reaches the interview stage

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

The Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering) is an international leader in the areas of biotechnology and biomedicine. Our engineering approach to all aspects of biotechnology and biomedicine positions us as a valuable player with unique competences in a growing bio-based economy and with health systems transforming towards personalized medicine. We have a clear focus on the needs in the life science industry and point towards innovation, new businesses, and scientific services for the benefit of society. The department has extensive collaborations with national and international research units and industry. DTU Bioengineering has approx. 400 employees, of which 2/3 are scientific staff. The department is located at DTU Lyngby Campus.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.