The University of Stavanger invites applications for a Ph.D research fellowship in Molecular microbiology at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Technology . This is a trainee position that will give promising researchers an opportunity for academic development leading to a doctoral degree. The appointment is for three years with research duties exclusively, or four years with both research and 25% compulsory duties. This will be clarified in the recruitment process. The position is vacant from as soon as possible.

The position is affiliated (but not bound to) the ongoing project “Wastewater treatment plants as critical reservoirs for resistance genes“, abbreviated “Gene gas“.

The position is primarily aimed at research within c studying the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in wastewater treatment systems. The main goal of the project is to use green fluorescence protein (GFP) labeled bacterial cells as biomarkers to examine the spread of antibiotic resistance in a sequence batch reactor (SBR). The candidate will use the data obtained to be included in a model for the spreading of these antibiotic resistance genes.

Please contact Associate Professor Krista Kaster for a detailed description of our proposed project.

Applicants

•  must have a strong academic background with a five-year master degree in a relevant field, preferably acquired recently; or possess corresponding qualifications that could provide a basis for successfully completing a doctorate. Both the grade for the master’s thesis and the weighted average grade of the master’s degree must individually be equivalent to or better than a B grade. A copy of official transcript in English og Norwegian must be included as an attachment to the application.
• must have competences in documented knowledge and skills in environmental microbiology and molecular biology. We are particularly interested in candidates that are familiar with techniques such as qPCR, PCR, sequencing and cloning, and who can use these and others to perturbed and monitor microbial communities in natural systems. Demonstration or experience in analytical methods, growth of bacterial communities and a basic understanding of running batch reactors will be an asset. Successful candidates should also have som demonstrated research experience such as practical laboratory work thesis during their master’s project.
• must write an application letter explaining their motivation for applying, and should include a list of their relevant research and laboratory skills related to this project. In evaluating the applicants, emphasis will be placed on their potential for research in the field. The appointee must be able to work independently and as a member of a team, be creative and innovative.
• must have a good command of both oral and written English.

The resulting PhD degree will qualify for research and teaching positions at University level. The appointee will be based at the University of Stavanger, with the exception of a stay abroad at a relevant centre of research. The salary for this position is set according to the State Salary Code, l.pl 17.515, code 1017, NOK 449.500 per annum.The position provides an automatic membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, which guarantees favourable retirement benefits.

Project description and further information about the position can be obtained from Associate Professor Krista Kaster, telephone +47 5183 1545, email krista.kaster@uis.no  Information about the appointment procedures can be obtained from HR-advisor Janne Halseth, telephone +47 5183 3525, email janne.halseth@uis.no