Senior Researcher in Systems Biology of Microbial Metabolism - DTU Biosustain

Are you ready to drive cutting-edge research in microbial metabolism? We are looking for a Senior Researcher like you to lead pioneering studies on microorganisms capable of utilizing one-carbon (C1) compounds.

In this role, you will conduct groundbreaking research in microbial physiology and metabolism using a systems biology approach. Your work will generate deep insights into microorganisms of industrial significance. Your primary objective will be to develop a comprehensive systems-level understanding of these microbes, leveraging multi-omics data and advanced computational models.

Additionally, you will apply these insights to engineer high-performance microbial bio-factories for the efficient conversion of C1 compounds into valuable products.

Responsibilities and qualifications
Despite decades of research, many aspects of microbial metabolism remain to be fully understood. This is particularly true for environmental microorganisms capable of utilizing C1 compounds—an area with immense potential but limited prior study.

In this role, you will lead pioneering research to deepen our understanding of microbial physiology and metabolism. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, you will generate and analyze large-scale datasets—including high-quality multi-omics and physiological data—to drive biotechnological advancements. Additionally, you will develop novel methodologies for data integration and modeling, ultimately informing and directing engineering efforts in microbial systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise and mentor a diverse team of wet lab and dry lab scientists, fostering a collaborative research environment.
• Lead cutting-edge research in systems biology to decode microbial metabolism.
• Develop and implement novel analytical, cultivation, and computational methods.
• Oversee and expand a state-of-the-art laboratory equipped with mass spectrometers, plate readers, bioreactors, and other advanced instrumentation.
• Secure research funding by conceptualizing and writing compelling grant proposals.
• Disseminate impactful findings through high-impact publications and presentations at international conferences.

This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of microbial systems research, contributing to groundbreaking discoveries with real-world applications in biotechnology.

You must contribute to teaching at the Department. DTU employs two working languages: Danish and English. You are expected to be fluent in at least one of these languages, and in time are expected to master both.

Specific Qualifications:

• Proven expertise in microbial systems and synthetic biology, with a strong international research track record.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing, mentoring, and supervising research staff, as well as MSc and PhD students.
• Extensive experience in project management, strategic planning, and effective budgeting.
• Innovative in technology development, with a strong background in designing and implementing novel methodologies.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and present research to diverse audiences.
• Broad microbial expertise, including experience working with multiple microbial species, particularly C1-assimilating microorganisms.
• Hands-on proficiency in analytical chemistry, including LC-MS/MS targeted metabolomics, GC-MS, and HPLC.
• Computational expertise, including programming, multi-omics data analysis (metabolomics, fluxomics, transcriptomics, proteomics), data integration, and metabolic modeling.
• Firsthand experience in molecular biology and genetic engineering.
• Practical experience in automation and small-scale fermentations, including gas fermentation.

As a formal qualification you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) as well as academic qualifications equivalent to those obtained by holding a position as a researcher or postdoc. To be appointed as a senior researcher, you must have completed a didactic/pedagogic education. If you do not have the necessary education, then it is possible to complete this requirement within a period of two years of appointment.

You will be assessed against the responsibilities and qualifications stated above and the following general criteria:

• Research experience 
• Experience and quality of teaching
• Research vision and potential
• International impact and experience 
• Societal impact
• Innovativeness, including commercialization and collaboration with industry
• Leadership, collaboration, and interdisciplinary skills
• Communication skills

Salary and terms of employment 
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