The position is part of a project examining the role of microbial populations in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), in anaerobic digesters and in hydroponics (HYP) units with the goal of better understanding conditions that will maximise beneficial transfers of microbes and their products among components of decoupled aquaponics systems. There are many different approaches to examining these aspects of production, from the use of next-generation sequencing to map microbial communities, or biochemical analyses to characterize how microbes improve nutrition for fish and plants.  Hence the specific scientific background of the candidate is less important than their interest in the topics and demonstrated qualifications in their respective field.

We are seeking a candidate who is independent and self-motivated given that details of the project can be adjusted based on the candidate’s skills and interests. The candidate will be working in a multidisciplinary team of engineers, pathologists, food scientists, modellers and policy-makers involving several international research groups, thus exemplary teamwork and communication skills as well as the ability to travel are essential. The candidate will be expected to lead their project but i) develop and discuss their ideas with team members and the PI; ii) to initiate and carry out their work within a collaborative environment but with limited supervision; iii) write well-formulated reports and academic articles.

Responsibilities

The candidate will be responsible for running applied experiments in several different labs internationally, thus requiring flexibility for extended stays in various locations; further international travel will also be necessary to participate in meetings, working groups, conferences and visits with industry partners.

Qualifications

The candidate must possess a PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, veterinary medicine, bioengineering, biotechnology, cell biology or related disciplines. It is not a requirement to have prior experience with aquaponics or prior experience in hydroponic crop production (commercial greenhouse facilities) and/or the operation of recirculating aquaculture systems, but such experience would be useful. Please note clearly on your application if you have any relevant skills such as technical operation of aquarium / aquaculture tanks, hydroponics or irrigation systems, or prior work in the operation of multiphase bioreactors.

If the following items are not evident on the CV, please state clearly in the cover letter how you meet the following requirements:

• Proof of research and scientific writing skills with at least 3 published peer-reviewed articles as first author in peer-reviewed journals (please also highlight any technical reports written). Full-text of articles must be provided with the application.
• Willingness to travel internationally for longer research periods in partner laboratories as well as frequent travel for participation in working groups, conferences, and visits with industry partners
• Demonstrated statistical skills, including software such as R

Good communication skills in English (written and spoken) are necessary. A valid driver’s license is required. The position also involves frequent international travel as the work is being conducted with partners in international laboratories. Candidates without any prior international work/study experience will not be considered.

Employment terms

A start date is ideally prior to June 1, 2020, but the exact start date for this position is negotiable depending on the availability of a suitable candidate. The post-doctoral fellow will be hired for a two-year period to lead this project. You will have a full spectrum of vacation and leave benefits, as well as coverage from national health and business travel insurance.

How to apply

In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.