Job description
Marine microbes naturally capture massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into dissolved molecules that can resist degradation for months, years, or even millennia. These processes could drive the development of new carbon capture technologies, but how microbes create these molecules and why they resist degradation remain a mystery. We are searching for a postdoc to address this knowledge gap by exploring how enzymes in phytoplankton (un)intentionally convert cellular metabolites into forms that cannot be degraded. For this, the postdoc will use a unique combination of enzyme assays, high-throughput metabolomics, and phytoplankton microbiology. The ideal candidate has experience with some, or all, of these interdisciplinary areas.
This is a starting lab, meaning the postdoc will get significant hands-on time with brand-new mass spectrometers and other cutting-edge equipment, and will play a prominent leadership role in shaping the lab environment. The postdoc should be open to working in interdisciplinary collaborations to broaden their scientific network and research repertoire.
Who we are
The lab of Sammy Pontrelli will start at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology in January 2025. Our interdisciplinary research involves developing metabolomics methodology to study enzymes, microbial physiology, and microbial communities in new ways. The overarching goal is to identify the key factors controlling microbe-mediated carbon storage in the ocean, with a focus on using model microbial systems in the lab.
VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute across 5 universities with a strong track record of translating scientific breakthroughs into societal innovations and biotech companies. The Center for Microbiology in Leuven is embedded within KU Leuven, one of Europe's oldest and most prominent universities, consistently ranked in the top 50 worldwide. Leuven is located 10 miles from Brussels, with frequent direct train connections to Brussels airport.
Profile
Essential
- PhD in a biologically related field (Microbiology, biotechnology, etc)
- Wet lab experience with molecular biology, microbiology or enzyme assays
- Experience leading a molecular level, biologically oriented project
- Excellent communication skills in English
Desirable but not required
- Highly Preferred: Experience in culturing marine phytoplankton
- Hands-on experience with high-resolution mass spectrometers
- Knowledge of MZmine
- Experience in molecular cloning, protein purification, and enzyme assays
- Programming skills in R
Key personal characteristics
- Enthusiasm to participate in interdisciplinary collaborations
- Ability to take on leadership and mentoring roles in a starting lab
- Commitment to an inclusive and diverse lab, promoting a positive environment
We offer
- State-of-the-art QTOF mass spectrometers and other equipment
- Ability to work on high-impact research topics
- Possibility to participate in interdisciplinary conferences
- Training in high-throughput metabolomics, enzymology, and microbial physiology
The starting date is February or March 2025 with a starting contract of 1 year, and a possible extension to 3-5 years.
How to apply?
Motivated candidates are asked to apply online. Please remember to upload the following documents:
- A description of why you are interested in this postdoc position and your career aspirations
- A description of your previous metabolomics and wet lab experience, and the biological questions you addressed in your PhD.
- Your CV
- Contact information of at least 2 references
For any questions concerning this position, please contact Sammy Pontrelli, [email protected].
