Postdoc in Quantitative Cell Biology/Biochemistry/Bioengineering (1.0 FTE)

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programmes and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 36,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global centre of knowledge.

The Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB), one of the larger institutes of the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE), provides an excellent environment for top-notch research in the field of biomolecular sciences. Thirteen vibrant research units with strong roots in biochemistry, biophysical chemistry, cell biology, computational biology, genetics, microbiology, molecular biology, and systems biology are organized in two focal areas: ‘Molecular Mechanisms of Biological Processes’ and ‘Physiology and Systems Biology’.

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Postdoctoral fellow with a strong background in biochemistry, biophysics, bioengineering or closely related fields to join the Cell Cycle Dynamics group of Dr Julia Kamenz.

In a human body, billions of cells divide every single day. Errors during cell division or uncontrolled cell proliferation can have detrimental consequences including cancer development. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of cell proliferation and cell division. These studies include (1) the intricate regulation of the kinases and phosphatases involved in the processes of cell division, (2) the impact of post-translational modifications in regulating cell division – in particular phosphorylations – and (3) studying the complex signaling networks surveying and controlling cell cycle progression. Specifically, this project will be focusing on developing new techniques to interrogate the signaling dynamics of cell cycle progression and cell cycle checkpoints using the frog egg extract system.

In the laboratory, we combine a variety of cell biological, biochemical and systems biological approaches including Xenopus laevis egg extracts, enzyme biochemistry, fluorescence live cell imaging of human cells and computational modelling. Among others, the Postdoctoral fellow will have access to state-of-the-art microscopes, microfluidics, mass spectrometry, tissue culture and animal facilities.

The Cell Cycle Dynamics group is embedded in the Molecular Systems Biology unit at the Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, which provides an inspiring, interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment.

The successful applicant has:

• a PhD with specialization in biochemistry, biophysics, bioengineering or closely related fields (if not graduated yet, please indicate the expected graduation date)
• at least one submitted significant first author publication
• a creative, open and resilient mind, excellent work ethics and good English skills (verbal and in writing)
• excellent interpersonal skills combined with an ability to work efficiently both independently and in a team.

Expertise in working with the Xenopus laevis egg extract system, protein biochemistry (including insect cell culture) and/or microfluidics is highly desirable.

The University of Groningen offers in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

• a salary from a minimum of € 3,557 gross per month up to a maximum of € 4,670 gross per month (salary scale 10) based on a full-time position and dependent on qualification and work experience
• a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income
• an 8.3% end-of-year bonus and participation in a pension scheme for employees
• a personal budget of € 1,000 per year that is dedicated for additional training and career activities
• career services for partners of new faculty members moving to Groningen.

The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another year. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year.

The conditions of employment: https://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us/

The planned starting date is September/October 2022, however, there is considerable flexibility in the starting date.

For information you can contact:

Dr Julia Kamenz,   [email protected]

(please do not use the email addresses above for applications)