Postdocs (2) in Supramolecular Chemistry

Two 2-year Post-Doctoral Fellowships in supramolecular and bioorganic chemistry are available at the Technical University of Denmark under the supervision of Associate Professor Sophie Beeren. The positions are funded by the Carlsberg Foundation Young Researcher Fellowship grant entitled ‘Enzyme-Mediated Dynamic Combinatorial Chemistry’. The successful candidate will join an ambitious, international research team, which is a part of the Organic and Inorganic Chemistry section at DTU Chemistry.

The positions are available from October 1 2021, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Research in the group is focused on supramolecular chemistry in water. We aim to understand how non-covalent interactions allow molecules interact, to recognise each other, to fold and assemble into larger, multi-component systems. We take inspiration from biological systems and exploit the tools of biochemistry to build new and complex chemical architectures, dynamic systems, host-gest complexes and adaptive materials.

The project will explore the use of enzyme-catalysed reactions in templated dynamic covalent synthesis – combining supramolecular chemistry with enzymology. This methodology will be developed towards the synthesis of carbohydrate-based receptors and stimuli-responsive materials. 

Responsibilities and qualifications
The work will include the design, synthesis and characterisation of molecular building blocks and supramolecular assemblies, enzymatic synthesis of glycans, analysis of dynamic oligosaccharide mixtures, and biophysical studies to investigate conformation, binding phenomena and self-assembly. Active dissemination of the obtained results, in scientific articles and through participation in international conferences, is an integral part of the job. The candidates hired will also be expected to take some responsibility for guiding and training students in the group, engage in some teaching, and perform a limited number of administrative tasks.

The successful candidate should have a PhD in Supramolecular or Organic Chemistry. Previous post-doctoral experience is an advantage. Extensive experience working with spectroscopy (NMR and optical), chromatography analysis (HPLC, LC-MS), mass spectrometry and/or organic synthesis is essential. Knowledge within the field of biochemistry could be an advantage but not essential. Experience within the field of systems chemistry would be valuable. Most importantly, the candidate should be highly motivated, able to work both independently and collaboratively, and should have excellent written and spoken English. The applicant should strive towards scientific excellence, be ambitious and hard-working. Only applicants who seek to be among the brightest in their field and conduct science at the highest international level will be considered.   

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.   

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .   

Further information
Further questions about the project and position should be directed to Associate Professor Sophie Beeren, email: [email protected] .    

You can read more about DTU Chemistry at www.kemi.dtu.dk and about the Beeren group at www.kemi.dtu.dk/SophieBeeren .    

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

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 30August 2021 (Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online", 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)
• List of publications
• 1-page summary of previous research
• Contact details for at least two academic referees

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

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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 vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 12,900 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.