Assistant researcher in toxin-antitoxin studies - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace 

Our research group uses a combination of microbiological, biochemical and structural apprpoaches to study molecular mechanisms of protein synthesis (translation). One of the research directions in the lab is study of toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems of bacteria and bacteriophages. One of the novel TA toxins discovered in the lab are so-called toxSAS enzymes that inhibit bacterial growth though producing poisonous nucleotides [1] or inhibiting translation by modifying tRNA [2]. Now we have established that toxSAS TAs can act as bacterial antiviral immunity systems protecting bacteria from bacteriophages [3]. This project will focus on discovery of other TA-based mechanisms of phage immunity and uncover their molecular mechanisms. Phage defence systems are both fascinating from the basic science point of view, but also clearly clinically relevant: with phage therapy being  an important alternative to antibiotics, understating the mechanisms that thwart it is crucial.

We are now looking for an assistant researcher fulltime and permanent with desired start date April 1st 2023 or upon agreement. 

In our group we strive for a supportive, respectful and stimulating working environment that promotes personal and professional development for all members. The lab is fully equipped and operates in close collaboration with top research groups in Europe and USA.

References

1. Jimmy S. et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 117, 10500-10510, (2020)
2. Kurata T. et al. Molecular Cell 81, 3160-3170 e3169, (2021)
3. Zhang T. et al. Nature 612(7938):132-140 (2022)

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University | Lund University

Work duties and areas of responsibility

As an assistant researcher your main responsibility will be experimental studies of toxin-antitoxin systems. Specifically, you will be applying microbiological, biochemical and molecular biology approaches to uncover the mechanisms of toxicity of new TA systems. Other tasks related to running the research group can also be relevant. As research in the field is rapidly progressing internationally, part of the work effort will be dedicated to keeping abreast with research literature and new methods in the field.

Qualifications 

Required qualifications:

• The successful applicant should hold a doctoral degree in molecular biology / microbiology or corresponding.
• Publications record in international journals.
• Good skills in both written and spoken English.
• Experience in microbiological, biochemical and molecular biology studies of toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems.
• Experience in working with bacteriophages
• Excellent communication in English

Personal skills are of importance. It is crucial that you are structured in your work and can work independently and have good social skills, 

Desired qualifications 

• Experience in ribosomal biochemistry
• Experience in protein or/and RNA biochemistry

Further information

This is a full time permanent position with  desired start date April 1st 2023 or upon agreement. Probationary employment may be applied. 

How to apply 

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application is to/should include a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application is to/should also include a CV and  degree certificates.