PhD in Chemistry specializing in Molecular Biomimetics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 200 employees and has a turnover of 200 million SEK. At the department's six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering and civil engineering programs and master's programs. More information is available on our website.

The student will be part of the bioinorganic chemistry group within the molecular biomimetics program. The program which is highly recognized internationally is part of the Department of chemistry – the Ångström Laboratory. The group is situated in a modern building at the Ångström Laboratory. The research in the program spans from organic, inorganic and physical chemistry to biochemistry and biophysics with a focus on redox active metalloenzymes. Strong cross-disciplinary collaborations are characteristic for the program. For more information visit our webpage.

Subject description/research project: The research project involves biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics and bioinorganic chemistry. Hydrogenase enzymes are the best molecular catalysts known to date with regards to hydrogen gas production and combustion. Consequently, they are intensively studied due to their biotechnological potential. The project follows one of the major project lines in the group, which focuses on the biochemical characterization of novel examples of this diverse enzyme family to identify those most relevant in a renewable energy context.

Work duties: The applicant will work in an interdisciplinary project that involves biochemistry, molecular biology and biophysics. The primary role of the PhD student in the project will deal with the identification of novel [FeFe] hydrogenases of potential biotechnological relevance, followed by their heterologous expression and characterization. Selected enzymes will be characterized in depth utilizing a combination of electrochemistry, spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, with a focus on determining reaction mechanisms and the identification of hydrogenases with novel properties. The work will be performed by the PhD student in collaboration with theoreticians, spectroscopists and synthetic chemists at Uppsala University and abroad.

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 can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements: A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

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

Requirements:

• degree or equivalent as above in biochemistry, molecular biology or similar.
• very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• The ability of the PhD student to be innovative and not afraid to go outside traditional discipline boundaries

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. 

Desirable requirements:

• Previous experience in biochemistry, biophysics and/or (bio)inorganic chemistry is desirable.

Terms of employment: The rules about PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§1-7 and the university's rules and guidelines.

Application procedure: The application should include a statement of research interest, CV, certificates of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of Master thesis, published article or relevant materials, if available. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included.

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

Salary: According to local agreement (Local collective agreement for doctoral students and students).

Starting date: 2020-05-01 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position for four years.

Scope of employment: 100%

For further information about the position, please contact: Dr. Gustav Berggren, Phone: + 46 (0)18 471 6583, e-mail gustav.berggren@kemi.uu.se.

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 2020-02-28, UFV-PA 2020/100. 

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.