Postdoc position in antimicrobial properties: The Faculty of Science and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Utrecht University invite applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher (0.8 FTE) position to investigate the antimicrobial properties of non-digestible oligosaccharides (NDOs) in controlling mucosal (respiratory) infections. The project, funded by ZonMW, focuses on multidisciplinary research to understand the effects of NDOs on airway pathogens and their potential as a treatment via the airways.
Designation: Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/x)
Research Area: Antimicrobial properties of oligosaccharides, Host-pathogen interactions, Respiratory infections
Location: Utrecht University, Faculty of Science & Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Eligibility/Qualification:
- PhD in microbiology, (cell) biology, or related fields.
- Strong interest in host-pathogen interactions.
- Experience in bacterial and cell culturing, and analyzing large datasets.
- Professional working proficiency in English.
- Affinity with or interest in working in an interdisciplinary environment.
Job Description:
Postdoc position in unravelling the antimicrobial properties of oligosaccharides (0.8 FTE)
The postdoctoral researcher will:
- Investigate the effect of NDOs on the growth and viability of airway pathogens.
- Study the antimicrobial and barrier-protective properties of NDOs on airway pathogens in 2D-airway cell cultures.
- Explore the synergistic/additive effect of NDOs on the action of different antibiotics.
- Elucidate the mechanisms underlying the antimicrobial activity of identified NDOs.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should send a curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation, via the ‘apply now’ button on the Utrecht University recruitment platform. Please specify your availability to start in the position in the letter of motivation.
Last Date for Apply: 26 November 2023
Tables:
| Contract Type | Postdoctoral Fellowship (0.8 FTE) for 2 years, with possibility to extend to 4 years |
|---|---|
| Salary | Full-time gross salary between €3,720 and €4,185 in scale 10.3 – 10.6 of the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities (CAO) |
| Benefits | 8% holiday bonus, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment conditions based on the CAO Dutch Universities |
| Qualifications | Skills and Experience |
|---|---|
| PhD in relevant field | Bacterial and cell culturing skills |
| Strong interest in host-pathogen interactions | Analytical skills for large datasets |
| Experience with antimicrobial research | Proficiency in English, including scientific writing |
| Ability to work independently and in a team | Interdisciplinary collaboration skills |
| About the Organization | Additional Information |
|---|---|
| Utrecht University – Faculty of Science & Faculty of Vet. Medicine | Project funded by ZonMW, focusing on antimicrobial properties of NDOs |
| International work environment | Potential for extension beyond the initial 2-year period |
| Career development opportunities | Early closure possible if sufficient interesting applications are received |
