ESR 4 University of Duisburg – Essen Germany

title of the project: Analysis if EPS composition and identification of enzymes involved in the archaeal biofilm dispersal

This PhD position aims to identify essential steps in the formation of archaeal biofilms and involves developing strategies to interfere with this process. Biofilm formation of different archaeal organisms will be analyzed, along with investigating the quantities and composition of their extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), including exopolysaccharides, DNA, and proteins. Enzymes involved in EPS degradation or modification, e.g. the removal of glycans from proteins, will be explored. Novel enzymes with potential for biotechnological applications will be studied by expression, enzyme purification, and characterization, including the assessment of their robustness against stressors, such as organic solvents. The enzymes’ effect on established biofilms will be evaluated. Secondments to industrial and academic ARCTECH partners are planned to learn specific technologies essential for the project.

Requirements

Research Field: Biological, biochemical sciences, or allied disciplines

Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

Required selection criteria

  • Excellent track record in relation to the opportunity
  • Completed Master’s degree or equivalent in Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology or related
  • You must have a strong academic background from your previous studies and an above average grade for your MSc degree.
  • Very good communication and collaboration skills and fluency in English

Preferred selection criteria

  • Experience in working with archaea, biofilm assays, or enzyme purification and characterization
  • Experience in time management and teamwork
  • Above-average commitment, ability to work independently and integrate into an interdisciplinary team
  • Scientific curiosity and passion

Specific Requirements

  • Must not already hold a doctoral degree
  • Must comply with the MSC Action mobility rule: not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date
  • You are required to fulfill the admission criteria for enrollment in the PhD program within the Faculty of Chemistry. https://www.uni-due.de/chemie/organisation_promotionen_en

Additional Information

Benefits

  • Access to state-of-the-art training within the ARCTECH doctoral network, at an academic, and industry level
  • Opportunities to collaborate with discipline specific world leading researchers
  • A mobility allowance to support relocation
  • A family allowance for the relocation of family (terms and conditions apply)

Eligibility criteria

The University of Duisburg-Essen aims to promote the diversity of its members (see https://www.uni-due.de/diversity).

It strives to increase the proportion of women in its academic staff and therefore strongly encourages qualified women to apply. In accordance with the North Rhine-Westphalia State Equal Opportunities Act, women will be given preferential consideration when equally qualified.

Applications from suitably qualified severely disabled individuals and those recognized as being equal under § 2 (3) SGB IX are welcome.
European Commission’s European Code of Conduct for recruitment of researchers: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code

Selection process

The application and supporting documentation to be used as the basis for the assessment must be in English.Applications should include:

  • Complete CV (name, address, degree(s) with transcript(s) of grades, research experience, educational and employment history, publications etc.)
  • Letter of application (max. 1 page) including a short explanation of the applicant’s motivation to undertake a PhD
  • Transcripts and diplomas for bachelor’s and master’s degrees
  • A copy of the master’s thesis. If you recently have submitted your master’s thesis, you can attach a draft of the thesis. Documentation of a completed master’s degree must be presented before taking up the position.
  • Names, contact details (including email addresses) of at least two referees

Upon request, you must be able to obtain certified copies of your documentation.

Please upload your application with the documents as listed above, quoting the reference number , by 5pm (CET+1) on 12th May 2024 via the application form.

Applications submitted by post or to other email addresses will not be considered. 

In the evaluation of which candidate is best qualified, emphasis will be placed on education, experience, and personal and interpersonal qualities.

Additional comments

The University of Duisburg-Essen is a young, innovative university located in the heart of the Ruhr metropolitan region. We pride ourselves in outstanding research and teaching, think in terms of opportunities rather than limitations and develop ideas with a view to the future. Diversity is an integral part of our culture as we promote potential and are committed to upholding genuine equity in education.

The Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry (MEB) is an integral part of the Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology in the faculty of Chemistry. The research team, headed by Professor Dr. Bettina Siebers, is delving into the complexities and regulatory mechanisms governing metabolism in prokaryotes, with a particular focus on (hyper)thermophilic archaea. Employing a mix of traditional biochemistry and molecular biology techniques, as well as advanced high-throughput technologies (poly-omics) and modeling approaches, we strive for a comprehensive understanding of these processes. In addition to fundamental research, our endeavors extend to the practical application of archaeal enzymes and the development of novel archaeal platforms for biotechnological applications.

Renumeration aligns with TV-L pay grade 13 (100%). The monthly gross salary will fall within the range of 4,390 € to 4,970 €. The precise net salary is contingent upon local tax regulations and social and health insurance policies, and will be determined upon appointment. The position is limited to a period of 3 years.

Contact info Coordinator Arctech project

info.archaeaforbiotechnology@rug.nl

University of Groningen

PO box 11103, 9700CC Groningen, Netherlands