Research Assistant in Molecular Biology

A one-year Research Assistant position is available in the CFB-P-Bacterial Cell Factory Optimization group at The Novo Nordisk Foundation, Center for biosustainability, DTU, starting 14. November or as soon as possible thereafter.

We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated Research Assistant interested in the development of cell factories for the sustainable production of biochemicals. This position is open to candidates with a Master’s degree and previous experience with molecular methods and other types of laboratory work. 

Our research focuses on developing tools for production of biochemicals by engineering of bacteria through metabolic engineering, systems and synthetic biology. We also focus on utilization of alternative carbon sources for the sustainable biosynthesis of bulk chemicals currently derived from oil. Extraordinarily motivated and ambitious candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities and tasks
We are looking for a candidate who will be performing daily experiments and who will be integrated in our team as an interactive member, bringing enthusiasm and ideas to the work being developed. Prior experience with one or more molecular methods is mandatory.

The experiments conducted will primarily involve (but are not limited to):

• Culturing of microbial cells
• Plasmid, DNA and RNA extraction
• PCR and qPCR
• Flow cytometry
• HPLC analysis
• Fluorescence microscopy and data analysis

Experience with all or as many of the techniques listed above is highly desirable. Additionally, proactivity to setup and troubleshoot new protocols is expected to be taken as an attractive challenge. Upon starting the contract, an initial period of training will follow until the candidate reaches familiarity and independency with the lab’s protocols. The ability to find a balance between learning fast and working independently, in one hand, while being able to freely ask questions when unsure about some aspects of the work is extremely important for a successful outcome.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Biology or similar field
• Prior experience with one or more molecular methods is a pre-requisite
• Prior experience and interest in sustainable production of biochemicals is an advantage
• Highly motivated candidate, passionate by science and sustainability
• Language: fluent in English (written and verbal) is an advantage
• Well-organized, independent and pro-active;
• Mature and calm under pressure

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 successful candidate will be offered a full-time position for a period of 1 year, contingent on a satisfactory performance. There is a possibility of extension pending on further funding. Working hours are 37 hours per week. Flexibility to adjust the schedule to the timings of experiments is expected and very important.

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed with the relevant union. Start date: 14 November 2021 or as soon as possible.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Co-PI Sheila I. Jensen, PhD ([email protected] ).

You can read more about DTU Biosustain at www.biosustain.dtu.dk/ .

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 than1 November 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)

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 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.

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.