Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Microbiology: The Microbial Ecology and Evolution Research group, led by Professor Ville-Petri Friman at the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position. The position is part of a Novo Nordisk funded project aimed at developing phage biocontrol against the phytopathogenic Ralstonia solanacearum bacterium.
Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Microbiology of Anti-phage Defense Systems
Designation: Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area: Molecular Microbiology of Anti-phage Defense Systems
Location: University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Doctoral degree in molecular or microbiology, genetics, or a related field
- Experience in constructing bacterial mutants using genetic engineering
- Desirable experience in plant pathology, bacteria pathogenesis, microbial ecology, evolution, or phage biology
- Ability to conceive, execute, and complete research projects independently
- Creativity and good group-working skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
Job Description: The postdoctoral researcher will be involved in a 3-year project starting in April 2024. The project aims to develop a novel biocontrol method against the plant-pathogenic bacterium R. solanacearum using phages. The researcher will identify antiphage defense systems, isolate phages countering these defenses, and design evolution-proof phage biocontrol cocktails. Collaboration with Lund University provides networking and training opportunities within the phage research community.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary and a supportive working environment
- Access to high-quality local infrastructure and interdisciplinary collaboration
- State-of-the-art computational resources
- Training for microbial bioinformatics and plant pathology
- Possibility to visit collaborators at Lund University and other institutions
- Non-discriminative working environment
How to Apply: Submit a single PDF file in English via the University of Helsinki Recruitment System. Include:
- Motivation letter (max. 2 pages) covering background, methodological skills, research interest/vision, and past experience in multidisciplinary groups.
- CV with a list of publications.
- Names and contact details of two referees.
Application Deadline: February 29, 2024 Earliest Start Date: April 1, 2024
Disclaimer: This job post is sourced from a reliable outlet. For further details and confirmation, please refer to the official site of the University of Helsinki.
