Postdoc in carbon fixation mediated by marine microbial enzymes

Job title:

Postdoc in carbon fixation mediated by marine microbial enzymes

Company

VIB

Job description

Job description
Marine microbes naturally capture massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into dissolved molecules that can resist degradation for months, years, or even millennia. These processes could drive the development of new carbon capture technologies, but how microbes create these molecules and why they resist degradation remain a mystery. We are searching for a postdoc to address this knowledge gap by exploring how enzymes in phytoplankton (un)intentionally convert cellular metabolites into forms that cannot be degraded. For this, the postdoc will use a unique combination of enzyme assays, high-throughput metabolomics, and phytoplankton microbiology. The ideal candidate has experience with some, or all, of these interdisciplinary areas.
This is a starting lab, meaning the postdoc will get significant hands-on time with brand-new mass spectrometers and other cutting-edge equipment, and will play a prominent leadership role in shaping the lab environment. The postdoc should be open to working in interdisciplinary collaborations to broaden their scientific network and research repertoire.Who we are
The lab of Sammy Pontrelli will start at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology in January 2025. Our interdisciplinary research involves developing metabolomics methodology to study enzymes, microbial physiology, and microbial communities in new ways. The overarching goal is to identify the key factors controlling microbe-mediated carbon storage in the ocean, with a focus on using model microbial systems in the lab.
VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute across 5 universities with a strong track record of translating scientific breakthroughs into societal innovations and biotech companies. The Center for Microbiology in Leuven is embedded within KU Leuven, one of Europe’s oldest and most prominent universities, consistently ranked in the top 50 worldwide. Leuven is located 10 miles from Brussels, with frequent direct train connections to Brussels airport.Profile
Essential
PhD in a biologically related field (Microbiology, biotechnology, etc)
Wet lab experience with molecular biology, microbiology or enzyme assays
Experience leading a molecular level, biologically oriented project
Excellent communication skills in English
Desirable but not required
Highly Preferred: Experience in culturing marine phytoplankton
Hands-on experience with high-resolution mass spectrometers
Knowledge of MZmine
Experience in molecular cloning, protein purification, and enzyme assays
Programming skills in R
Key personal characteristics
Enthusiasm to participate in interdisciplinary collaborations
Ability to take on leadership and mentoring roles in a starting lab
Commitment to an inclusive and diverse lab, promoting a positive environment We offer
State-of-the-art QTOF mass spectrometers and other equipmentAbility to work on high-impact research topicsPossibility to participate in interdisciplinary conferencesTraining in high-throughput metabolomics, enzymology, and microbial physiologyThe starting date is February or March 2025 with a starting contract of 1 year, and a possible extension to 3-5 years. How to apply?
Motivated candidates are asked to apply online. Please remember to upload the following documents:
A description of why you are interested in this postdoc position and your career aspirationsA description of your previous metabolomics and wet lab experience, and the biological questions you addressed in your PhD.Your CVContact information of at least 2 referencesFor any questions concerning this position, please contact Sammy Pontrelli, Sammy.pontrelli@vib.be.

Expected salary

Location

Leuven, Vlaams Brabant

Job date

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 22:56:50 GMT

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