Specialist in Metabolic Engineering of Anaerobic Microorganisms

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability (CFB) at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is seeking a Specialist to join a research project targeting the production of biochemicals from single-carbon substrates. The CFB is an research center that focuses on the use of advanced metabolic engineering techniques and synthetic biology tools for developing the next generation of cell factories. The Center comprises various research units covering activities focusing on metabolic engineering of various microorganisms for production of biochemicals, proteins and peptides.

The position is to be filled from in August 2018 or soon thereafter.

The job

The main focus of this job will be to apply state-of-the-art metabolic engineering methodologies for the production of biochemicals from gaseous substrates using autotrophic bacteria.

Primary areas of responsibility

The successful candidate will be responsible for engineering the platform strain for producing selected biochemicals, characterizing the engineered strains and further optimizing them. The work will also include the development and improvement of genetic tools for the platform organism. Optimizing the fermentation conditions for maximum product formation and recovery are also among the goals of the projects. The job will require close collaboration with the analytical and fermentation groups at the Center.

Our expectations of you

We are seeking a highly motivated, open-minded and goal-oriented candidate, who should have the following qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree in microbiology, molecular biology, chemical engineering, biotechnology or equivalent
• Solid experience with cultivation and genetic manipulation of strict anaerobes
• In-depth understanding of bacterial physiology and metabolism
• All-around knowledge of the theoretical and practical aspects of metabolic engineering
• Knowledge on bioreactors, bioinformatics and omics data analysis will be advantageous
  

 

Additionally the candidate must have:

• Documented scientific excellence in the form of high quality publication record
• Solid skills in Design of Experiments as well as data analysis and presentation
• Strong work ethics
• English proficiency
• Strong communication skills to efficiently interact with a diverse group of researchers in a multi-cultural work environment

 

What we offer in return

We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international atmosphere with the focus on research, teaching, innovation and scientific advice for the benefit of the surrounding community. We place emphasis on a high level of professionalism among our staff, so skills development is an integral part of our organization. We offer a great flexibility in the position. In the area of technical and natural sciences, DTU is one of the leading research and education institutions in Europe.

Salary and appointment terms

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The workplace is DTU Lyngby Campus.

Further Infomation

DTU Biosustain is an international research center of excellence developing next generation cell factories and bioprocesses for sustainable production of high-value chemical compounds as well as protein-based products. The center uses advanced metabolic engineering techniques and computational biology ensuring efficient and cost-effective design and construction processes.

The center's activities are a balanced mix of basic and translational research, complemented by an emphasis on business development to facilitate commercialization of new cell factories and associated technologies. DTU Biosustain offers state-of-the-art research facilities and assembles world leaders in the field thus offering a unique platform providing excellent talent development and career opportunities.

DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and scientific advice. Our staff of 6,000 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society, and our 11,200 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government and public agencies.