PhD position in neutron scattering and diffraction of ‘energy-enzymes’ - 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 250 employees and has a turnover of 250 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.

This position is in connection with the SwedNess PhD research school.

Subject description/research project: Within the Program Molecular Biomimetics we are looking for a highly motivated and educated candidate eager to contribute to our research on solving the mechanisms of gas producing and processing enzymes of high energy relevance. In this position, you will be applying neutron scattering and diffraction experiments, in conjunction with other biophysical techniques, protein purification and crystallization to study the role of water molecules, H-bonding networks and H-atoms for the mechanisms of photosystem II, rubisco and hydrogenase.

The successful candidate will work within a world-leading and friendly team led by Prof. Johannes Messinger, and have access to state-of-the-art experimental and computational research facilities that are supported by competent scientific staff. You will also benefit from attractive working conditions (4-year salary, no tuition fees, comprehensive health care, and ergonomic working environment). This project involves collaboration with other leading groups at Uppsala University, as well as in Germany, Estonia and the USA.

Work duties: You will work on solving the role of hydrogen bonding networks and catalytic hydrogens for water oxidation in photosynthesis, CO2 reduction by rubisco, and H2 formation in hydrogenases. Your focus will be the crystallization of these enzymes and performing neutron scattering and diffraction experiments, taking advantage of the large-scale neutron facilities in Sweden and around the world. Thus, this PhD project requires that you travel to large-scale facilities for data acquisition and to research visits to the partner’s labs. You may also apply several other biophysical techniques, such as membrane-inlet mass spectrometry, flash-induced oxygen evolution, fluorescence, thermoluminescence, EPR spectroscopy and serial femtosecond crystallography at X-ray free electron lasers. You will be benefitting from the support by the SwedNess Neutron School and are expected to participate in all its activities.

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: We are looking for a PhD candidate with enthusiasm for experimental work, who has also an interest in data analysis. 

• degree or equivalent as above in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Physics, or another relevant field.
• very good oral and written proficiency in English.

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. 

Additional requirements: A solid background in protein isolation and crystallization, and/or data collection and analysis at large scale (neutron scattering) facilities are merits.

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.

Selection procedure: shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by several persons, are requested to present their Master thesis, or other equivalent project, in a group meeting (in person/video) and may additionally be asked to demonstrate their writing skills.

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

Starting date: 01-03-2021 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %.

For further information about the position please contact: Prof. Johannes Messinger, phone: +46 70 167 9843, email: johannes.messinger@kemi.uu.se.

Please submit your application by 15 March 2021, UFV-PA 2020/4407.

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.