Doctoral student in protein engineering and evolution - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

The research at the division of biochemistry and structural biology is aimed at understanding fundamental life processes at the molecular level using experimental and computational approaches, primarily focusing on studies of the function and structure of proteins. The division of Biochemistry and structural biology is part of the Center for Molecular Protein Science (CMPS), Department of Chemistry. CMPS offers a creative and strong research environment with excellent infrastructure and several successful groups that have attracted prestigious grants from the European Research Council and the Wallenberg Foundation (see https://www.cmps.lu.se for more information). 

The current position is placed in Prof. Ingemar André's research group. The group has both experimental and computational research projects and projects that intersect these areas. Experimentally the group develops approaches for high-throughput protein characterization, methods to improve the biophysical properties of native and designed proteins, and structural characterization of designed proteins. The group also uses computational protein design and artificial intelligence methodology to design protein structures.

Subject description

The project aims to better understand the evolutionary forces that shape the sequence landscapes of proteins. With the help of high-throughput protein stability measurements, the effects of mutations in different in evolutionary-related proteins will be evaluated to understand how natural proteins have evolved and the relationship between protein sequence and three-dimensional structure. You will learn how to use sophisticated experimental approaches like lab automation, generation of DNA sequence libraries and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. The project will also involve some bioinformatical analysis of experimental data and natural protein and DNA sequences.

Work duties

The work involves the generation of DNA mutant libraries, recombinant protein expression, lab automation with liquid handling robots, analysis of cells with fluorescence-activated cell sorting, preparation of DNA for Next Generation Sequencing, analysis of sequencing results using bioinformatical tools, protein purification, and biophysical characterization of proteins.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements

General admission requirements

A person meets the general entry requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if they:

1. have been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
2. have satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
3. have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

The head of department may permit an exemption from the general admission requirements for an individual applicant, if there are special grounds.

Specific admission requirements

A minimum of 120 credits are to derive from chemistry courses, of which at least 30 credits from a second-cycle degree project in the chosen specialisation or a closely related specialisation. The specific entry requirements can also be fulfilled through an equivalent programme. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Additional requirements:

• Master's degree in biochemistry, biotechnology, engineering biology, biology, synthetic biology, biophysics or a comparable degree with a substantial component of studies devoted to molecular subjects.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems. Written and oral communication skills Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:

• A degree project based on experimental work involving characterization of proteins.
• Practical experience of biophysical or structural characterization of proteins.
• An interest in working in a multidisciplinary research environment and collaborating with computational scientists within the research group, as well as interest in learning some theoretical concepts in protein evolution.
• An interest in developing approaches for automating lab protocols for high-throughput protein characterization.

In addition to the mandatory requirements, documented experience in the following areas will be considered as merits:

• Prior experience in data analysis with python programming
• Prior experience with synthetic biology or more advanced DNA manipulation
• Prior experience with methods in bioinformatical methods used in studies of protein evolution

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment
Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).