Postdoc in microbial metabolomics and microbiology

Job title:

Postdoc in microbial metabolomics and microbiology

Company:

VIB

Job description

Job description
We are seeking a postdoc for an interdisciplinary project that integrates high-throughput metabolomics, enzyme assays, and microbiology. Our lab focuses on how microbial interactions drive carbon dioxide capture and sequestration in the ocean, and our primary tool is high-throughput metabolomics. We need a postdoc to develop methods that combine enzymes and metabolomics and apply them to probe how microbes interact with each other and their environment. The candidate must have hands-on experience in high-resolution mass spectrometry and ideally wet lab experience working with microbes and/or enzymes. The project’s scope can be flexibly tailored to suit the postdoc’s interests and future goals.
This is a starting lab, meaning the postdoc will get significant hands-on time with brand-new mass spectrometers and other cutting-edge equipment, and will play a prominent leadership role in shaping the lab environment. The postdoc should be open to working in interdisciplinary collaborations to broaden their scientific network and research repertoire.Who we are
The lab of Sammy Pontrelli will start at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology in January 2025. Our interdisciplinary research involves developing metabolomics methodology to study enzymes, microbial physiology, and microbial communities in new ways. The overarching goal is to identify the key factors controlling microbe-mediated carbon storage in the ocean, with a heavy focus on using model microbial systems in the lab.
VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute across 5 universities with a strong track record of translating scientific breakthroughs into societal innovations and biotech companies. The Center for Microbiology in Leuven is embedded within KU Leuven, one of Europe’s oldest and most prominent universities, consistently ranked in the top 50 worldwide. Leuven is located 10 miles from Brussels, with frequent direct train connections to Brussels airport.Profile
Essential
Mandatory: hands-on experience with high-resolution mass spectrometers (for untargeted or targeted approaches)
PhD in a biologically related field (Microbiology, biotechnology, etc)
Basic laboratory experience with molecular biology, microbiology or enzyme assays
Experience leading a molecular-level, biologically oriented project
Excellent communication skills in English
Desirable but not required

Detailed understanding of central carbon metabolism and/or environmental microbiologyExperience with in vitro enzyme assaysKnowledge of open-source metabolomics data analysis software, such as MZmineProgramming skills in RKey personal characteristics
Willingness to participate in interdisciplinary collaborations
Ability to take on leadership and mentoring roles in a starting lab, including equipment responsibilities
Commitment to an inclusive and diverse lab, promoting a positive environment We offer
State-of-the-art QTOF mass spectrometers and other equipmentAbility to work on high-impact research topicsPossibility to participate in interdisciplinary conferencesTraining in high-throughput metabolomics, enzymology, and microbial physiologyHow to apply?
The starting date is February or March 2025, with a starting contract of 1 year, with the possibility of a long-term prolongment.
If you are interested, please apply online and include the following documents:
A description of why you are interested in this postdoc position and your career aspirationsA description of your previous metabolomics and wet lab experience, and the biological questions you addressed in your PhD.Your CVContact information of at least 2 referencesFor questions or inquiries; please contact Sammy Pontrelli, Sammy.pontrelli@vib.be.

Expected salary

Location

Louvain, Brabant Flamand

Job date

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 22:46:50 GMT

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