This Assistant professor position will be associated to a research project on gene expression in multispecies biofilms. Because of their ubiquity and high persistence, multispecies biofilms challenge various human activities, and only by studying the bacteria when living with other species in close proximity, will we be able to understand these communities and their underlying interactions.

In this project, we study biofilms composed of multiple species; specifically aiming at identifying the matrix components that are differently expressed in mono vs. multispecies biofilms. Gene expression, species organization and matrix composition are studied by use of specialized biofilm model systems in combination with advanced microscopy.

The position is for 2 years, and is funded by the Office of Naval research, Global. The project will be carried out at Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen. The position is to be filled from the 15th of October 2019 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Qualifications:

We are looking for a motivated researcher with extensive research experience in microbiology, microbial physiology cultivation, genetic engineering and experimental design. Furthermore, the researcher should have extensive wet lab experience to be able to design and conduct experiments, and a proven record of scientific publications. The candidate is expected to participate in the teaching portfolio of the Section, and therefore, teaching experience is required.

The following qualifications are required:

• PhD degree (or equivalent) in Microbiology, Biotechnology or similar
• Independent research experience as a postdoc or other equivalent position
• Expertise in multiple bacterial cultivation techniques and bacterial systems, such as co-cultivation in various formats, handling of natural isolates, etc.
• Experience with assay and strain development, such as development of co-cultivation techniques compatible with transcriptome profiling and subsequent RNA-sequencing will be considered an advantage
• Extensive experience with advanced genetic engineering of various bacterial species (including, chromosomal fluorescence tagging, construction of promoter-reporter gene fusions and genetic knock-out mutants)
• Extensive experience with confocal and epifluorescence microscopy(i.e. various staining methods and probe design/detection)
• Extensive knowledge in evolutionary biology with a particular emphasis on sociomicrobiology concepts
• Proven publication track record
• Teaching experience in master courses and supervision of bachelor and master students
• Ability to engage in teamwork within the group and our collaborators
• Extensive experience in applied research projects related to microbiology
• Fluency in English

Application:

The application must contain:

• Motivated letter of application
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Curriculum vitae
• List of publications
• Transcript of university examinations (in English)
• Contact details of 2 persons for references.

For further information about the position please contact Associate Prof. Mette Burmølle: burmolle@bio.ku.dk