Uppsala University, Department of Ecology and Genetics

A position as a postdoctoral researcher in microbial biogeochemistry is available at the Department of Ecology and Genetics, Uppsala University.

The Department of Ecology and Genetics is an international environment with staff and students from all over the world. Our research spans from evolutionary ecology and genetics to studies of ecosystems. For more information, see www.ieg.uu.se.

Project description: Lakes are active components of the global carbon cycle and feature a variety of biotic and abiotic processes that degrade, modify and immobilize the terrestrial organic carbon en route from land to sea. This transformation is largely mediated by heterotrophic bacteria that use such substrates for their metabolism. In this project we will study these degradation processes at a mechanistic level with focus on how microorganisms process and transform key low molecular compounds into carbon dioxide, different biopolymers and other metabolites. To what extent are these transformation processes controlled by the chemical characteristics of ther compounds used, the traits and funtional properties of the organisms or prevailing environmental conditions? How reactive are the different microbial degradation products and what role do they play in the local and global carbon cycle? Using freshwater ecosystems as models, we will answer these questions using controlled laboratory experiments with stable isotopes and interpret results based on ancillary information on the functional and genome encoded traits of microbial communities and populations.

Duties: Research about microbial interactions in the deep terrestrial biosphere. Bioinformatic and metabolic/functional analysis of fungal and bacterial communities in water and biofilms of the deep bedrock. Analysis and interpretation of data and presentation of results in scientific publications. Some limited student supervision may be included.

Qualifications required: For this position the candidate must hold a PhD degree within microbiology, (analytical) chemistry, environmental sciences or another relevant subject. Analytical skills and extensive knowledge about chemical analysis of carbon compounds is a requirement and should be explained and documented in the application. Candidates must be highly proficient in spoken as well as written English.

To be eligible the candidate must have a PhD degree, or a foreign degree equivalent to this, completed less than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, the degree can/could be completed earlier. Special reasons can for example include leave due to illness, parental leave, work within a union.

Qualifications desired: Research and laboratory experience in aquatic biogeochemistry and experimental aquatic microbiology. Previous experience and knowledge in NMR, mass spectrometry and use of stable isotopes is considered a merit. Proficiency in biostatistics, microbial metabolism and modeling will also be considered positively in the evaluation of applicants.

Position: This is a fulltime temporary position for 24 months. Individual salaries applied.

Access: 15 September 2018 or as agreed upon.

Instructions for the application: The application should include Example: 1) a letter of intent describing yourself and your research interests, 2) a CV and list of publications 3) name and contact information for at least two reference persons. The application should be written in English.

Uppsala University aims for gender balance and diversity in all activities in order to achieve a higher quality at all levels of the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.

For further information about the position please contact: Professor Stefan Bertilsson, stebe@ebc.uu.se, +46-70-1679034.

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 22 augusti 2018 UFV-PA Enter the reference number here 2018/2526.

Type of employment Permanent position
Contract type Full time
Salary Fixed salary
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100%
City Uppsala
County Uppsala län
Country Sweden
Reference number UFV-PA 2018/2526
Union representative
  • Ellena Papaioannou, Seko, 018-471 3315
  • Suzanne Borén Andersson, TCO/ST, 018-471 6251
  • Per Sundman, Saco-rådet, 018-471 1485
Published 28.Jun.2018
Last application date 22.Aug.2018 11:59 PM CEST

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