Postdoctoral Researcher – Seaweed Molecular Biology, Physiology and…

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full time fixed term position as a Postdoctoral Researcher (Plant Molecular Biology & Metabolism) in the Plant Systems Biology research group of Dr. Ronan Sulpice at University of Galway.

This position is funded by Science foundation Ireland and is available from March 2023 to end date of September 2024 (19 months).

Job Description:

The successful candidate will combine advanced knowledge of molecular genetics research with large-scale metabolic and phenotypic screening of algae. The experiments will consist of large scale metabolic analyses and growth phenotyping screens, whole genome sequencing of Ulva strains. Traits of focus in the project will include identification of genetic markers to identify best performing strains, for biomass quality, growth performance and efficiency for bioremediation of wastewaters.

Thus experimental approaches employed in the project will include DNAseq, biochemical assays, phenotyping, and extensive field- and lab-level screening. 

In addition to the experimental aspect of the project, the successful candidate is expected to contribute to the dissemination of the results, help to report the results, and participate in the daily life of the laboratory.

The aim of the project is to identify suitable Ulva strains for bioremediation, and as such the project will participate at mitigating eutrophication of Irish coastal areas.

Duties:

• Sample seaweeds
• Extract DNA, and analyse NGS data generated
• Perform large throughput metabolic and growth analyses
• Collaborate with the laboratory team technically and scientifically
• Write papers/reports
• Interact with stakeholders
• Participate to report progress to grant agency
• Participate in dissemination activities
• Participate in lab management and co-supervision of students
• May act as mentor to co-supervisor of students and have limited teaching hours

Qualifications/Skills required:

Essential Requirements:

• PhD in Plant or seaweed biology and a good research track record that demonstrates strong capabilities and outputs.
• knowledge of R for analysis and visualisation of large datasets
  • Strong proven (via publications, patents and other research outputs) research record
  • Organisational, writing and report/paper drafting skills.
  • Valid driving license in Ireland
  • Skills in biochemistry (metabolic analyses)

Desirable Requirements:

• Have experience in grant writing
• Evidence for team working (including supervision and/or lab management experience)

Salary: Postdoctoral Researcher Point 1 €41,209 per annum pro rata for shorter and/or part-time contracts (public sector pay policy rules pertaining to new entrants will apply).

Start date: Position is available from 1st March 2023

Continuing Professional Development/Training:

The University of Galway provides continuing professional development supports for all researchers seeking to build their own career pathways either within or beyond academia.  Researchers are encouraged to engage with our Researcher Development Centre (RDC) upon commencing employment – see www.universityofgalway.ie/rdc  for further information.’

Further information on research and working at University of Galway is available on Research at University of Galway

Further information on research and working at NUI Galway is available on Research at NUI Galway

For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie

Further information about the laboratory is available at https://sulpice-lab.com/

Informal enquiries concerning the post may be made to Dr. Ronan Sulpice

To Apply:

Applications to include a covering letter, CV, and the contact details of three referees should be sent, via e-mail (in word or PDF only) to Ronan Sulpice: [email protected]

Please put reference number University of Galway 302-22 in subject line of e-mail application.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm (Irish Time) 30th December 2022

We reserve the right to re-advertise or extend the closing date for this post.

The University of Galway is an equal opportunities employer.

All positions are recruited in line with Open, Transparent, Merit (OTM) and Competency based recruitment