Research Associate (Postdoc) – Metabolic Engineering, Microbiology, Microbial Genetics
Location - University of Wisconsin-Madison, U.S.A.
Expected start date - as soon as possible.
Application deadline - December 15, 2023, for full consideration. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Job description
A co-mentored postdoctoral research position is available in the labs of Prof. Chris Todd Hittinger and Dr. Trey Sato at the University of Wisconsin-Madison as part of the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC).
Within GLBRC, our groups aim at optimizing microbial conversion of lignocellulosic sugars to specialty biofuels. We seek a motivated candidate to apply metabolic engineering, multi-omics, and synthetic biology approaches to improve cellulosic biofuel production in yeast.
The candidate will be responsible for independent and collaborative research projects to increase the conversion of glucose and xylose, the two most prevalent sugars in plant biomass, into isobutanol in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The candidate will have access to equipment and resources within our Center for adaptative laboratory evolution, genome sequencing, CRISPR/Cas9 engineering, strain libraries, industrially relevant lignocellulosic hydrolysates, and metabolomic tools.
Required degree
Ph.D. with strong background in molecular genetics, microbiology, metabolic engineering, and/or synthetic biology. Candidates must be within 2 years of PhD graduation and Ph.D. must be granted by the start date.
Minimum requirements
• Strong written and oral communication skills to collaborate and communicate effectively with a team of researchers from diverse scientific backgrounds.
Desired qualifications
• Experience in analyzing Illumina sequencing data, bioinformatics, and machine learning.
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering.
Required application materials
Send a CV, any manuscript p/reprints, and the name and contact information of three professional references to Chris Hittinger (cthittinger@wisc.edu) and Trey Sato (tksato@glbrc.wisc.edu). Specifically mention in your email the reasons you are interested in this position.
Applicants will be interviewed electronically and possibly in person. Applications will be reviewed immediately and be considered until the position is filled.
Additional information
Initial appointment is available for one year with strong potential for continuation depending upon funding and performance. Salary is commensurate with experience, in accordance with the NIH NRSA Stipend Level for Postdoctoral Trainees.
At GLBRC, we strive to provide a holistic and well-rounded experience to our postdoctoral trainees, and we recognize the importance of supporting their professional development needs to ensure their successful transition to the career of their choosing. To complement the scientific training received in their lab, postdocs at GLBRC can:
• Attend and present at scientific research symposiums and/or conferences.
• Access cross-discipline research environments and training opportunities within GLBRC and cross-BRCs.
• Benefit from integrated career and professional development support (internal and external).
• Take part in Outreach and Community Engagement opportunities.