Sweden : PhD position in Biochemistry

PhD position in Biochemistry

at the Department of Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry.

Project description: The PhD project is an integrated part of a larger research plan studying enzymes for catalysis of different reaction types. These enzyme catalysts will be applied in sequence to make up miniature reaction pathways producing product molecules of defined structures. In addition to naturally occurring enzymes, novel biocatalysts from structurally engineered proteins are produced and analyzed.

Key words: directed evolution of enzymes; synthetic biochemistry; biocatalysis; enzymology.

Qualifications: Bachelors degree (or equivalent) in biochemistry or interfacing areas of chemistry, or molecular biology, and an additional full year of studies of comparable content at an advanced level, including a Masters thesis (or equivalent).

Other qualifying merits: Theoretical and practical skills in:

• heterologous expression of proteins (gene/cDNA cloning, prokaryotic expression systems)
• site-directed mutagenesis (e.g. PCR, oligo-directed mutagenesis)
• protein purification (chromatographic methods)
• analytical methods for biomolecules and organic molecules (e.g. electrophoresis, HPLC, basic NMR)
• the use of adequate computer software (e.g. word processor, spreadsheet, molecular graphics, data analysis).
• teaching experience at undergraduate level.

The PhD position is for four years, extendable to a maximum of five years by including department duties (typically teaching) at a level of at most 20%. Since first year undergraduate courses are taught in Swedish, proficiency in Swedish may be considered an advantage.

For more information on this position, please contact: Prof. Mikael Widersten, mikael.widersten@biorg.uu.se.
Union representatives are Anders Grundström, SACO-rådet, tel: +46 18-471 5380, Carin Söderhäll, TCO/ST, tel: +46 18-471 1996 and Stefan Djurström, SEKO, tel: +46 18-471 3315.

The application should contain a letter where the applicant describes him/herself, merits and research interests, CV, copies of academic grades, exam work or related documents, other relevant publications and letters of recommendation.

The application should be sent , preferrably by e-mail to:registrator@uu.se, or by fax + 46 18 471 2000, or by mail to: Registrar´s Office, Uppsala University, Box 256, SE-751 05 UPPSALA, Sweden. In any correspondence, please use the reference number UFV-PA 2009/2275. 

Application no later than 30 October, 2009.