Postdoc position in Chemistry specializing in Molecular Biomimetics

Published: 2023-03-24

Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a long-term difference in society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has over 54,000 students, more than 7,500 employees and a turnover of around SEK 8 billion.

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 250 employees and has a turnover of 250 million SEK. At the department's six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering programs and master's programs. More information is available on our website . (https://kemi.uu.se/angstrom/?languageId=1 ). 

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University

Work duties
Carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (CODH) enzymes are highly active catalysts with regards to the reversible reduction/oxidation of CO2. Consequently, they are intensively studied due to their biotechnological potential. The project follows one of the major project lines in the group, which focuses on ancestral reconstruction and directed evolution of CODHs with the aim of developing biocatalysts that can be applied in CO2 fixation.

The applicant will work in an interdisciplinary project that involves molecular biology, bioinformatics, biochemistry and biophysics. The primary role of the postdoc will deal with directed evolution of CODH including library screening under anaerobic conditions. This with the aim of identifying mutations that increase CO2 reduction activity. Successful mutants will be characterized in depth utilizing a combination of electrochemistry, spectroscopy and structural biology, with a focus on determining the mechanism behind the improved properties. The project will be led by the postdoc in collaboration with spectroscopists and structural biologists at Uppsala University, within Sweden, and abroad.

The main duty of the postdoc is to devote themselves to their research but work duties may also include supervision of degree projects and doctoral students.

Requirements
PhD degree in biochemistry, molecular biology or similar, or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD degree. The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Those who have obtained a PhD degree three years prior to the application deadline are primarily considered for the employment. The starting point of the three-year frame period is the application deadline. Due to special circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

Desirable qualifications
Special consideration will be given to applicants with experience in directed evolution. Experience in biocatalysis, bioinformatics, biochemistry, biophysics and/or bioinorganic chemistry will also be beneficial.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of 2 years according to central collective agreement. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 2023-06-01 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala, Sweden. 

For further information about the position please contact: Dr. Henrik Land, e-mail: henrik.land@kemi.uu.se 

Please submit your application by 21 April 2023, UFV-PA 2023/1119

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Placement: Department of Chemistry - Ångström Laboratory

Type of employment: Full time , Temporary position

Pay: Fixed salary

Number of positions: 1

Working hours: 100%

Town: Uppsala

County: Uppsala län

Country: Sweden

Union representative: Seko Universitetsklubben seko@uadm.uu.se
ST/TCO tco@fackorg.uu.se
Saco-rådet saco@uadm.uu.se

Number of reference: UFV-PA 2023/1119

Last application date: 2023-04-21