Research Associate- Hollfelder Group: Metagenomic Screening for Carbohydrate-Active Enzymes and Directed Evolution in Microfluidic Droplets (Fixed Term)

Department/Location: Department of Biochemistry, Central Cambridge

A postdoctoral position is available for 3 months (in the first instance, extension possible) from 1 June 2024 to work with Florian Hollfelder at the Biochemistry Department of Cambridge University (https://hollfelder.bioc.cam.ac.uk/).  The project focuses on harnessing metagenomic libraries for novel biocatalysts that break down or modify carbohydrates and may play a role in future sustainable processes with higher resource and energy efficiency.

We use ultrahigh throughput assays in microfluidic droplets to screen metagenomic libraries for new catalysts for applications in recycling, bioremediation and green chemistry. Candidate enzymes are mechanistically investigated, structurally characterised and subsequently improved by directed evolution. Ultrahigh-throughput screening in microfluidic picoliter droplets allows us to interrogate enzyme libraries with more than 10 million members experimentally in a day, increasing the chances of success in catalyst discovery. 

Applicants should thus have a first (or upper second) class degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a related, relevant subject, followed by a PhD. The project involves chemical and molecular biology techniques. Specific skills in mechanistic enzymology/enzyme kinetics, assay development, DNA library generation, structural biology, organic synthesis, high-throughput screening and microfluidic engineering are advantages, but will also be acquired during the postdoctoral training period.

Applications should contain a description of research interests (e.g. as part of the cover letter), a detailed CV (with exam marks and all relevant practical experience) and a list of publications. Please also include the names and email addresses of at least two referees, who are familiar with your research work.

The University of Cambridge is a signatory to the San-Francisco Declaration on Research (Assessment DORA), and in recruitment or promotion evaluations will assess research on the basis of its merits rather than the journal or venue in which it is published. Applicants should not include Journal Impact Factors or uncontextualized metrics in their applications. For more information:

https://www.biology.cam.ac.uk/files/dora.pdf 

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 months in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the apply button above.

For an informal discussion please contact Professor Florian Hollfelder: fh111@cam.ac.uk

For any questions about this vacancy or the application process please contact: personnel@bioc.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PH41547 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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