Project assistant, 6 months, to the Department of Molecular Biology

Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology

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The Department of Molecular Biology is searching for a project assistant for the project "Forecasting experimental evolution of biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa". The position is temporary for six months on full time. Planned start date 1 October 2020 or as agreed.

Project description and work tasks

Predicting the effects of mutation on protein function and the phenotype of the organism is pivotal for the field of evolutionary forecasting. The project assistant will introduce mutation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and characterize the effects on the ability to form biofilm. Biofilms are aggregates of microorganisms in an extracellular matrix that have increased antibiotic resistance and can evade the immune system. Bioinformatics will be used to predict the effects of mutations. Results will be compared with biofilm mutants isolated from experimental evolution studies and clinical isolates. This is a pilot study (6 months) with the aim of investigating the potential of the project to be appropriate for a grant application, PhD- or post-doc project.

As a project assistant you will under the guidance of a supervisor work with basic methods to:

• 1) Construct mutations in genes involved in biofilm formation

• 2) Screen for an effect of different mutations

• 3) Conduct bioinformatics analyses of mutational effects and comparative studies of sequence data

The selected candidate will under supervision use molecular biology and bacteriological techniques, as well as bioinformatics and document and present the findings.

Qualifications

You must hold a University degree equivalent to a European University Master degree in molecular biology (or equivalent fields) at the time of the recruitment (240 ECTS).

You should have documented experience in laboratory work with molecular biology and microbiology.

We are looking for someone that is enthusiastic and interested in the possibilities of predicting evolutionary processes. Good communication skills in written and spoken English are required.

You should be highly motivated and able to work productively in a team. Excellent communication skills for interacting effectively with senior colleagues and peers are required.

Desirable qualifications

Experience of genetic engineering in Pseudomonas aeruginosa or experience in several different bioinformatics methods for predicting mutational effects on protein structure and function is considered a merit.

Application

You apply through our recruitment system. Last day to apply is 10 August 2020. Your application must contain the following documents written in English or Swedish:

A CV with information on education, a list of previous and current employments, and a list of publications.
A cover letter describing your research experience and interests and motivation for applying for the position
Contact details of one to three references.

We welcome your application!

More about us

For questions regarding the position contact Peter Lind, peter.lind@umu.se

You can find more information about The Department of Molecular Biology at www.umu.se/en/department-of-molecular-biology/