PhD student position in chemistry with a focus in biogeochemistry - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

We are recruiting a talented doctoral student for a fully funded research project on mercury biogeochemistry. The project involves advanced training in analytical chemistry and microbial biogeochemistry. We are seeking an ambitious candidate who is interested in identifying mechanisms for cellular uptake of mercury in anaerobic bacteria. Apply no later than 23 April 2018.

Work description
This research project fully supports a PhD student to study mechanisms for mercury (Hg) uptake in anaerobic bacteria. This work will focus on molecular level studies on how Hg complexes with thiol compounds interact with cell membranes of such bacteria.

The spread of Hg in ecosystems constitutes a severe threat to wildlife, human health and socioeconomy. The problems are largely caused by formation of neurotoxic methylmercury (MeHg) which accumulates in aquatic food webs. Methylmercury is formed intracellular in a select group of anaerobe microorganisms by methylation of inorganic Hg. However, we still lack a fundamental understanding of the molecular mechanisms for cellular uptake of Hg in bacteria.

As an outcome of this research project, the doctoral student will be trained in, and conduct, advanced experimental laboratory work with anaerobic microorganisms. Focus will be on characterizing chemical structure, thermodynamics and kinetics of molecular interactions between Hg and thiol compounds in solution and at bacterial surfaces. Complexes between Hg and thiols will be analyzed by LC-ESIMS/MS and LC-ICPMS/MS, and by X-ray spectroscopy (at synchrotron facilities MAX IV in Lund, Sweden and Diamond in Oxford, UK). Results from the spectroscopic studies will be combined with thermodynamic and kinetic modeling to understand in detail Hg interactions with thiols, and to identify molecular mechanisms for bacterial uptake of Hg.

This doctoral education is fully funded by the Swedish Research Council (project 2017-04537) for 4 years. The project will be performed in collaboration with scientists at Umeå University, The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Umeå and Rutgers University, NJ, US. During the PhD training program, two periods of 2-4 months will be spent at Rutgers University for training in anaerobic culturing techniques.

The major work tasks are to: (i) continuously be updated on the scientific literature of the research field, (ii) formulate scientific objectives and hypotheses within the project, (iii) plan and conduct advanced laboratory experiments and modeling calculations, (iv) compile and interpret results, (v) present results in oral seminars (including at international conferences) and as scientific publications.

Requirements
To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level (Doctoral education) you are required to have completed a second-cycle (Master) level degree, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits (4 years fulltime studies), of which at least 60 ECTS credits (1 year fulltime studies) are at second-cycle (Master) level or have an equivalent education from abroad, or equivalent qualifications.

To fulfil the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third-cycle level in chemistry, you are required to have completed at least 90 ECTS credits within the field of chemistry or another subject considered to be directly relevant to the specialization. Of those 90 ECTS credits, at least 15 ECTS credits shall have been acquired at second-cycle level within biogeochemistry or analytical chemistry or an equivalent subject.

The successful candidate must have a very good command of written and spoken English. Experience in research related to biogeochemistry or analytical chemistry, for example by a degree work in a research group or similar, is required. You should be enthusiastic and determined, like experimental work, be precise, have good working ethics and moral, and be able to work both independent and in a group. Experience of LC-MS techniques, synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy, and/or work with anaerobe bacteria cultures is meriting but not a requirement.

Terms for the employment
The employment is expected to result in a doctoral degree and the main assignment is thus to be part of the research education, which includes participation in the described research project but also to take relevant courses. Teaching and other departmental work can be assigned up to a maximum of 20%. The employment is limited to four years at full time or up to five years if 20% departmental work is assigned. The salary is fixed according to the established level for doctoral students. The salary and all running cost for the work is fully covered by available funding from Umeå University and the Swedish Research Council.

Application
The application should include the following:

• CV
• A personal letter (one A4 page) where you describe your scientific background and interests, previous research experience and why you are interested in the position.
• Verified copies of graduation degrees, or equivalent, including documentation of performed academic courses and the grades as well as other relevant certificates (e.g. English knowledge)
• Name and contact information to at least two reference persons

The application is submitted through our e-recruitment system, log in and apply at the bottom of the page. Apply no later than 23 April 2018.

The starting date will be agreed upon, but should be as soon as possible.

Contact Associate Professor Erik Björn for more information, telephone: +46(0)90-7865189, e-mail: erik.bjorn@umu.se

Information about the postgraduate education can be found on the Faculty of Science and Technology website: http://www.teknat.umu.se/english/doctoral-studies/.