PhD Candidate in Enzyme Technology

Job summary

A 3-year PhD position is available in the field of industrial enzyme technology, focusing on the development of novel enzyme-based conversion concepts and robust enzymes for the conversion of 1-carbon substrates and synthetic polymer materials. The role involves research on enzyme discovery, characterization, and understanding reaction kinetics, with a particular emphasis on enzyme function and robustness.

Qualifications

• A two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent is required; MSc students nearing graduation are encouraged to apply.
• Strong foundation in chemistry and biotechnology, with hands-on experience in enzyme biotechnology.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both verbal and written.
• Passion for supervising and teaching BSc and MSc students.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research from enzyme discovery to detailed characterization of enzyme function.
• Link experimental work to enzyme function, robustness, and kinetics, potentially involving enzyme immobilization.
• Collaborate internationally, including a planned research stay in Australia.

Skills

• Experience with protein/DNA construct design software, protein engineering, and molecular biology.
• Practical skills in heterologous enzyme expression, purification, and kinetic characterization of enzyme reactions.
• Computational skills for enzyme characterization; bioinformatics experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with electronic lab book systems for research planning and documentation.

Education

• A master's degree in a relevant field is required.

Tools

• Experience with state-of-the-art protein/DNA construct design software and electronic lab book systems (preferably Benchling) is desirable.