Researcher in Physics: Protein Design for Sustainable Nanoscience

Description of the workplace

The position is placed at the Division of Solid State Physics at the Department of Physics, a division with around 100 employees where extensive research is carried out centered on various aspects of nanophysics, ranging from materials science to bio- and quantum physics to various applications. The division is a central part of NanoLund, Lund University's large interdisciplinary research Centre on nanoscience and nanotechnology.

A significant part of the research at the division is in nano-biotechnology where we are developing new methods to investigate biological systems, or to exploit biomolecules within nanocomponents. The division is leading a project aimed at combining ‘hard’ nanofabrication techniques with the rich functionality and versatility of ‘soft’ protein design, which offers great opportunities. Proteins have long been considered too complex and unpredictable to be used for engineering purposes, but this is rapidly changing, and the project is at the international forefront of this development.

More information can be found at: www.ftf.lth.se, www.nano.lu.se, https://portal.research.lu.se/en/persons/heiner-linke

Work duties

We are now opening a temporary position for a researcher who will start up the design, fabrication and characterization of protein-semiconductor or protein-metal hybrid structures. Tasks include computer-based design of proteins that can promote crystallization of specific semiconductors or metals, their fabrication and optical or electro-optical characterization. The tasks also include evaluating the innovation and application potential of research results.

In addition, there are opportunities to collaborate in other projects within the group, for example on the detection of biomolecules or artificial protein motors.

The duties as a researcher mainly include conducting research. You will work closely with postdocs and with doctoral students, and there is thus the opportunity to merit as a supervisor. Teaching may also be part of the duties, but not more than one fifth of the working time. Within the framework of the position, there is an opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education pedagogy. The purpose of the position is to develop independence as a researcher and create the conditions for further merit.

Qualifications

Appointment to a position as a researcher requires that the applicant has a PhD.

Required qualifications:

• You have a PhD or equivalent postgraduate qualification in the subject area of the position.
• You have experience in the design and expression of proteins and protein-semiconductor or protein-metal hybrid structures.
• You have very good oral and written skills in English.
• You are independent and able to co-operate.

Additional requirements:

• Experience in method development for computer-based protein design.

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

We offer

You will be included in a team of researchers at NanoLund, a highly visible nanoscience center that offers excellent career development, an open and inclusive research environment, and access to a wide range of state-of-the-art capabilities within characterization, nanofabrication and modelling.

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. 

Further information

The employment is fixed-time employemnt during the period 2025-06-01 until 2026-05-31 and refers to a scope of  100 %.  The position is not a teaching position and is covered by the Flextime agreement for T/A staff. A researcher who wishes to become a university teacher can apply for a position as an associate senior lecturer or senior lecturer in open competition. For more information about the employment form researcher, see also: Academic positions at Lund University https://www.lu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/att-soka-en-anstallning/akademiska-befattningar-vid-lunds-universitet

How to apply

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)”  

Welcome to apply!