Research engineer to new Chemical Biology division

This is about our lives and natural resources, about energy, materials recycling and materials development. With our focus on sustainable development we work with research and education of the highest quality for smarter materials and smarter processes, for improved health and a better environment.

We have approximately 300 employees, divided into four research divisions and one administrative unit. We are situated at campus Johanneberg.

Our department is characterized by inspiring world-leading research, in an environment of personal development and creation of new knowledge.



Information about the division
At the Chemical Biology division in the new department Biology and Biological Engineering, there is a growing focus on biophysical studies of protein structure, dynamics and interactions. The division consists of five independent but collaborative research groups that together provide expertise from single-molecules to organisms. The research theme in the group of Wittung-Stafshede has for long centered on protein folding and the role of metals in these reactions. Current research in this group focuses on questions regarding amyloid formation and its modulation, as well as mechanisms for how metal ions are delivered to metal-dependent enzymes by specific metal-transport proteins. In most studies in the research group, recombinant proteins are probed by biophysical methods such as circular dichroism, linear dichroism, fluorescence, stopped-flow mixing, Biacore, NMR and calorimetry in combination with biochemical experiments and activity assays. Having prepared most of our target proteins by common E coli expression for decades, some of the current work introduces new expression systems such as mammalian and insect cells.

Major responsibilities
As a step to build expertise in the group and allow for expansion, Wittung-Stafshede is looking for a research engineer that will provide support with molecular biology, protein expression and purification to the group (currently six members). The person will likely also participate in various of the ongoing research projects, supervise exam projects, and may have his/her own project on the side. Thus, the position focuses on supporting the whole group and its overall success, but there will also be a component of individual research.

Position summary
The position is for 2 years initially (with possibility for long-term extension) and will start upon agreement. 

Qualifications
The successful candidate should have an extensive education in protein biochemistry. Wide expertise of protein expression and purification in E coli using chromatography methods (including AKTA) are required. Knowledge of basic methods such as DNA manipulation, gel electrophoresis, Westerns and some spectroscopic techniques are expected. Experiences with handling of mammalian cell cultures and/or performing protein solution NMR experiments are merits.

The candidate should have a Ph.D. in biochemistry/biophysics/biology, or equivalent. Good communication skills in written and spoken English are required. The applicant must have good capacity to work independently as well as in a team, enjoy practical work and be solution-oriented as well as flexible. The environment is dynamic and every day is different.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure 
The application should be marked with Ref 20150384.

Application deadline: 15 January 2016

For questions, please contact:
Prof. Pernilla Wittung-Stafshede, 
e-mail: pernilla.wittung@chalmers.se.


*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Built Environment, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!