PhD Student in Microbial Strain Engineering

Job summary

This position involves engineering fungal cells to create safer food-grade chassis as part of a research program focused on microbial foods. The role includes designing genetic edits in filamentous fungi and characterizing strains to reduce mycotoxin production.

Qualifications

• Two-year Master’s degree in microbiology, food science, molecular biology, synthetic biology, mycology, or a related field.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Fluent in spoken and written English; proficient in common IT systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute genetic modifications in Aspergillus to reduce mycotoxin production.
• Characterize strains phenotypically and analytically in collaboration with safety and analytical chemistry teams.
• Investigate fermentation conditions that affect secondary-metabolite formation.
• Deliver toxin-attenuated strain variants for prototype development.

Skills

• Experience with CRISPR-based editing tools or homologous recombination in microorganisms.
• Familiarity with secondary-metabolite biosynthesis and gene cluster analysis.
• Exposure to fermentation or bioprocess development.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Strong interest in utilizing AI in research development.

Education

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field is required.

Tools

• Genetic editing tools, fermentation equipment, analytical chemistry instruments.