Post-doctoral fellow in theoretical chemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject description
A post-doctoral scientist will be recruited for a joint project between the Department of Chemistry, Division of Theoretical Chemistry, and the European Spallation Source ERIC to investigate the mechanism and selectivity of antimicrobial peptides in cancer therapies, using a combination of computer simulations and neutron/X-ray scattering studies in models of tumour cell membranes. The candidate will be hosted 75% of their time at the ESS DEMAX laboratory, where they will develop methods for the isolation of deuterium labelled lipids for the reconstruction of cell membrane models of tumour and healthy tissue types. The project is an international collaboration with Ancona and Oslo universities.

Work duties
The main duties of the position will be to develop methods for the isolation and analysis of biologically deuterated lipids and the reconstitution of appropriated cell membrane models for neutron and X-ray scattering experiments to probe the interaction and mechanism of natural and synthetic peptides, in combination with computer simulations. The candidate will spend ca. 50% of their time on the lipid deuteration and membrane reconstitution. Furthermore, the participant will actively collaborate with theoreticians to develop models that will serve as a basis for computer simulations, and thereby achieve a molecular understanding of the underlying physics.

Other duties will include:

• Research within the subject area, as defined in the project plan
• Participation in the day-to-day activities and maintenance of ESS DEMAX laboratory in Medicon Village
• Collaboration with ESS scientists and participation in relevant events
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students
• Actively seeking external research funding
• Collaboration with industry and wider society
• Administration related to the work duties listed above 

Qualification requirements
Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position, completed no more than three years before the last date for applications. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Experience of working in an international environment Excellent oral and written proficiency in Swedish is desirable

• Willingness and ability to travel internationally to perform experiments at X-ray and neutron facilities

Experience of lipid extraction and purification from cell cultures and analysis/isolation using liquid and gas chromatography methods is essential Hands-on experience and a good understanding of neutron reflectometry and small angle scattering experiments, as well as data-analysis for investigating lipid membranes is essential Experience of analytical or preparative HPLC, mass spectrometry and/or NMR analysis of lipids is desirable Experience in or an interest to learn to culture cells (yeast, bacteria) would be beneficial Experience in and willingness to contribute to general laboratory housekeeping activities, including waste disposal, chemical/consumable ordering, chemical inventory, as well as maintaining and calibrating equipment used is required.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications
This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers.

Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Additional assessment criteria:

The ability to work independently as well as to support and collaborate with others is essential An interest and ability to learn new techniques and methods is desirable The ability to write to reports and publications on methods developed and results obtained is essential An interest to participate in conferences, workshops, meetings, and outreach activities is desirable.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment
This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of a maximum of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S, OFR/S and SEKO, dated 4 September 2008. 

Instructions on how to apply
Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• résumé/CV, including a list of publications,
• a general description of past research and future research interests (no more than three pages),
• contact information of at least two references,
• copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.
• ½ A4 page with a motivation of the eligibility of this position