Molecular Microbial Ecology Group
University of Copenhagen
POST: Assistant Professor for the Molecular Microbial Ecology Group
The Molecular Microbial Ecology Group is recruiting an Assistant Professor. The position is for 2 years and funded through the Center for Environmental and Agricultural Microbiology (CREAM). The project will be carried out at Section for Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen. The position is to be filled as soon as possible.
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is today recognized as being the most important factor for the rapid global dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. Plasmid-encoded antibiotic resistance giving rise to multi-resistant pathogenic bacteria may complicate the treatment of bacterial infections in humans. Recent data indicates that the soil resistome in areas with intensive agricultural activities has expanded during the antibiotic era. A direct role of metal contamination in soil on the build-up of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial communities has also been documented. However, little is still known about the mechanisms behind environmental and metal-based selection for antibiotic resistance.
The position includes the study of various molecular mechanisms (plasmid donors and recipients, plasmid host range, regulation of transfer genes etc.) favouring or minimizing horizontal gene transfer in complex environments in order to screen for compounds that can reduce plasmid-borne spread of antimicrobial resistance. In addition, the molecular mechanisms behind expansion of the soil bacterial resistome will be further explored.
The work will include the construction and design of several fluorescence marker-based molecular reporter systems. In addition, the candidate will be expected to develop high throughput screening assays for measuring HGT using flow cytometry.
Apart from the research and publication of scientific data the candidate is also expected to contribute with relevant teaching in the group, including the supervision of students. The candidate will also receive supervision and relevant pedagogical training to improve his/her own teaching and communication skills.
QUALIFICATIONS
We are looking for a skilled and competent molecular biologist with experience in DNA cloning, flow cytometry and DNA sequencing.
· Ph.D. in microbiology, molecular biology or a similar degree
· Documented experience within several gene-cloning techniques and molecular biology techniques in general.
· Experience with transposon-based systems for random and site-specific mutagenesis is required.
· It is preferred that the candidate has a good knowledge of plasmid biology, microbiology and bacterial genetics.
· The candidate is required to have practical experience with flow cytometry and activated cell sorting (FACS).
· Experience with 16S amplicon pyrosequencing is an advantage.
· The candidate is required to have documented experience with teaching at university level.
· Able to cooperate well with colleagues and enjoy both teamwork and cross-functional cooperation.
APPLICATION:
The application must contain:
· Motivated letter of application
· Curriculum vitae
· List of publications
· Transcript of university examinations (in English)
· Documentation of teaching experience at university level
· Contact details of 2 persons for references
An assessment committee will evaluate the applications. The applicant will be notified of the composition of the committee. Each applicant will receive the part of the evaluation that concerns her/him. The main criterion for selection will be the research potential of the applicant. In addition experience with the effects of climate change on microbial processes in soil will be an advantage.
Terms of appointment and payment in accordance to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC). The salary is based on seniority and is currently between 31.400 kr. and 33.000 kr. plus pension contribution and possibility to negotiate further supplement.
The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.
For further information about the position, contact: Professor Søren J. Sørensen sjs@bio.ku.dk . Please do not send your application to this address.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
We must have your online application by January 3rd, 2012. Please open the link (see below) and fill in the application form.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Deadline: 03-01-2012
FOR DETAILS, PLEASE REFER http://www.ku.dk/english/available_positions/vip/
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