Research Assistant in Microbial Strain Engineering

Give your future career the best possible launch pad

If you have a Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, bioengineering or equivalent and you are looking for just the right job to kick-start your career, you have found it. You will join DTU Biosustain where we create novel methods and technologies as a foundation for development of new environment friendly products, better and less energy consuming manufacturing processes, new medical treatments, climate friendly farming, etc.

You will be part of a world-class scientific R&D environment providing you with the best possible opportunities for a steep learning curve. At the same time, you will make your personal and important contribution to our Bio Foundry in Denmark. You will join our DNA Foundry team and play your vital role in building a positive and welcoming culture characterized by ambitions, trust, respect and helpfulness. Please note that the assignment is limited for a 3-year period.

Molecular biology, foundry equipment, reagents and materials, communication…
As Research Assistant in our DNA Foundry team your mission is to contribute to the development of a new strain engineering platform that facilitates strain construction to validation. You will assist our scientists to implement and improve molecular biology workflows using the foundry equipment. You can look forward to be working with the latest technologies, equipment and to be part of the center with top class scientists from all over the world. You will assist within:

• Optimizing molecular biology SOPs like plasmid construction, PCRs, DNA assembly, transformation, genome editing using CRISPR and NGS
• Operating various foundry equipment like colony pickers, liquid handlers, NGS and Nanopore
• Preparing DNA/RNA libraries for sequencing
• Preparing reagents and materials including media and buffers
• Ordering reagents and lab wares and maintenance of related inventory
• Communicate results and process deviations

Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, bioengineering or equivalent
We are looking for a profile that likes to learn new things via an open-minded and positive collaboration. You must thrive in a global environment and be able to communicate with an understanding of cultural and professional differences. As you will be part of the team, you must also be motivated by handling a broad spectrum of tasks – and contribute to optimizing the work processes. Additionally, your CV comprises:

• A Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, bioengineering or equivalent
• Experience in some or several of the following: PCRs, plasmid construction, bacterial transformation, DNA extraction, microbial culturing, NGS, CRISPR-based genome editing
• Experience in optimizing and following complicated protocols and SOPs
• Experience in and motivation for reporting results in digital format i.e., electronic lab Notebook and LIMS.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability (DTU Biosustain)
Recent progress in our ability to read and write genomic code, combined with advances in automation, analytics and data science, has fundamentally changed the scope and ambition of harnessing the potential of biological systems. Big data approaches and analysis of biological systems are key research instruments at the Center. DTU Biosustain utilizes these advances for microbial cell factory design to foster sustainable lifestyles in relation to three application areas: Sustainable Chemicals, Natural Products, and Microbial Foods.

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 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information
If you would like additional information about the position, please contact Group Leader Vijayalakshmi Kandasamy at [email protected] . If necessary, we will set up an additional phone call to ensure your understanding of the job and your many opportunities.

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

Application
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 15 August 2021(Danish time). Apply online at www.career.dtu.dk . Applications must be submitted in English as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc)
• List of publications (if relevant)

The deadline is 15 August but we recommend submitting your application as soon as possible, since we will be processing incoming applications continually.

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

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability (DTU Biosustain)
Recent progress in our ability to read and write genomic code, combined with advances in automation, analytics and data science, has fundamentally changed the scope and ambition of harnessing the potential of biological systems. Big data approaches and analysis of biological systems are key research instruments at the Center. DTU Biosustain utilizes these advances for microbial cell factory design to foster sustainable lifestyles in relation to three application areas: Sustainable Chemicals, Natural Products, and Microbial Foods. Learn more at biosustain.dtu.dk .

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 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.