Post-Doctoral Position in Biocatalysis

Updated: over 2 years ago
Deadline: ;

A Post-Doc position is available initially for 12 months for a project in collaboration with biotech and pharmaceutical companies. The project deals with the screening, protein engineering and application (i.e., study of reaction conditions) of enzymes for the synthesis of chiral amines and amino acids. The position is immediately available and will start as soon as possible.


What are you going to do

You will work on the generation of new biocatalysts for the synthesis of chiral amino acids and chiral amines. The main part of the project will be: (i) the screening of enzymes already available at the HIMS-Biocat group for the conversion of substrates of interest for the synthesis of intermediates for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs); (ii) the selection of the best enzyme candidates and enhancement of their catalytic activity and stability through protein engineering; (iii) study and optimization of the reaction conditions for the synthesis of the target molecules using the engineered enzymes; (iv) write of scientific reports and manuscripts.


What do we require of you

Candidates must hold a PhD in chemistry or biotechnology with an expertise in the area of biocatalysis. The ideal candidate should have hands-on experience in standard cloning techniques, PCR, protein expression and purification, and performing, handling and analysis of enzymatic reactions. Experience in computational/structural analysis of proteins is a plus.

The ability to collaborate and adapt in an international team is required and candidates must possess good communication skills in oral and written English. Due to limitations in recruitment budget we will preferably consider candidates that are currently in Europe.


Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours a week, preferably starting on 1 August 2021 or 1 September 2021 for the duration of 12 months. The selection process commences immediately and it will close when a suitable candidate has been found, even if this is prior to the final date of the application window.

The salary, depending on relevant experience before the beginning of the employment contract, will be €2,790 to €4,402 (scale 10) gross per month, based on a fulltime contract (38 hours a week). This is exclusive 8 % holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Are you curious about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits like our excellent opportunities for study and development? Take a look here .


About us

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 7,000, as well as 1,600 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences is one of eight institutes of the University of Amsterdam (UvA) Faculty of Science. HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research, curiosity driven as well as application driven. This is done in close cooperation with the chemical, flavor & food, medical and high-tech industries. Research is organized into four themes: Synthesis & Catalysis, Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry and Molecular Photonics.

The Biocatalysis group is headed by Dr. Francesco Mutti. In general, the Biocatalysis group carries out cutting-edge research at the interface between chemical and biological sciences. The research mainly focuses on the development of novel biocatalysts for the sustainable synthesis of high-value chemical products as well as for the degradation and recycling of waste materials. Complementary research lines are either the identification and characterization, or the engineering of novel enzymes, application of enzymes in cascades reactions in vitro (in batch or in flow) and in vivo.


Questions

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Or do you want to know more about our organisation? Please contact:

  • Dr. Francesco Mutti , associate professor

  • T. + 31 (0)20 525 8264


Job application

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 31 July 2021. You can apply online by using the link below.  We will recruit until a suitable candidate has been found.

Applications in .pdf should include a motivation letter and CV, including a list of publications.

Please mention the months (not just years) in your CV when referring to your education and work experience.

 



no agencies please

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