The Yeast Natural Products group at DTU Biosustain is seeking an analytical chemist (Research Assistant level) to join the group’s translational project on therapeutics manufacturing in yeast.
At DTU Biosustain we develop the next generation of biosustainable technologies using synthetic biology. We create novel methods and technologies as a foundation for development of new environment-friendly products, better and less energy consuming manufacturing processes, new medical treatments, climate-friendly farming, etc. In other words, we try to solve some of the biggest challenges in the history of humankind, and you will get the chance to add your mark to this.
The Yeast Natural Products group is focusing on refactoring plant biosynthetic pathways for natural products manufacturing in yeast. The competencies in our laboratory, led by Prof. Jay D. Keasling, focus on the use synthetic biology to engineer microbes to produce scarce bioactive. To strengthen our team’s translational R&D activities, and further advance our visions for delivery of new supply chains for bioactive natural products we seek an analytical chemist with a focus on:
- Analysis and quantification of known compounds in biological samples (targeted compound analysis)
- Analysis and relative quantification of unknown compounds in biological samples (metabolomics)
- Identification of unknown compounds in biological samples (compound ID)
- Analytical method development for quantitative and qualitative analyses in biological samples
Job description
The candidate will be assisting a senior analytical chemist in developing and executing state-of-the-art LC-MS analysis for mitigating metabolic engineering bottlenecks. The candidate will closely collaborate with a team of about 10 researchers with expertise in synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, biochemistry, bioprocess engineering and computational biology. The candidate will be supporting research activities in the analytical unit.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Extraction, isolation and identification of compounds from biological samples
- LC-MS/MS data acquisition and quality control
- Assist LC-MS/MS method development and optimization
- Basic instrument maintenance and troubleshooting
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have:
- Scientific academic degree with analytical chemistry or related background
- Hands-on experience working with biological systems (e.g., biological sample preparation and extraction)
- Experience in analytical instrument (HPLC, GC/LC-MS) operation and maintenance
- Proactive attitude and a translational research drive
- Good communication (oral and written) in English
- Positive mind-set and work independence
- Flexibility, enthusiasm, responsibility, team spirit and excellent collaboration skills
The Yeast Natural Products group – your new team
We offer an exciting, collaborative, hard-working, and entrepreneurial team, focusing on translational research and innovation with both societal and environmental impacts. We place emphasis on a high level of professionalism in our team, so skills development and knowledge-transfer are integral parts of our agile well-resourced organization.
Our environment (especially in non–Corona times) is characterized by openness, knowledge sharing and helpfulness. Now, we are looking forward to be able to be physically together like before – and to make you a part of the team, naturally.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
Please note that the employment period will be for 1 year.
Application and contact
Please submit your online application no later than 7 May 2021 (Danish time).
Apply at www.career.dtu.dk
Applications must be submitted in English as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration including CV, cover letter, diploma, list of publications including patents, if you have such.
If you would like additional information about the position, please contact Dr. Jie Zhang (jzha@biosustain.dtu.dk) or Dr. Khem Bahadur Adhikari (khbaad@biosustain.dtu.dk). If necessary, we will set up an additional phone call to ensure your understanding of the job and your many opportunities.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability (DTU Biosustain)
Recent progress in our ability to read and write genomic code, combined with advances in automation, analytics and data science, has fundamentally changed the scope and ambition of harnessing the potential of biological systems. Big data approaches and analysis of biological systems are key research instruments at the Center. DTU Biosustain utilizes these advances for microbial cell factory design to foster sustainable lifestyles in relation to three application areas: Sustainable Chemicals, Natural Products, and Microbial Foods. Learn more at biosustain.dtu.dk
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 12,900 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. Our main campus is in Kgs. Lyngby north of Copenhagen and we have campuses in Roskilde and Ballerup and in Sisimiut in Greenland.
