Postdoc in Analytical Chemistry / Molecular Biology / Microbiology

Subject areas aquaculture / feed supplements / aquaponics / biofilters / hydroponics / biofloc / biofilms / bivalves / neuroendocrine

Three postdoctoral positions are currently available with a research focus on one of the following topics (i) bivalve neuroendocrine physiology; or (ii) microalgal production for shellfish aquaculture; or (iii) aquaponics.
The first project involves examining cell lineages of melanocytes and biomarkers of melanocyte differentiation in Crassostrea gigas (oysters). The second project will focus on optimizing Chaetoceros calcitrans production in microalgal cultures for shellfish aquaculture in conjunction with an industrial partner. The third project will examine the role of microbial populations in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), biofilters, anaerobic digesters and hydroponics (HP) units within aquaponics systems that optimize growth from appropriate nutrient transfers between units. The third project will also involve work on bacterial relationships related to biofloc, biofilms and pathogens in recirculating aquaculture systems.

We are seeking candidates who are independent and self-motivated; details of the projects can be adjusted based on a candidates skills and interests. The candidates will be responsible for running applied experiments in several different labs (Europe, Australia, Southeast Asia) thus requiring flexibility for extended stays in various locations as well as frequent international travel to participate in meetings, working groups, conferences and visits with industry partners. The candidates will be working in a multidisciplinary team of aquaculture researchers, engineers and food scientists in several international research groups, thus good team skills, effective communication in English and the ability to travel are required.

The position is fulltime for an initial 2-year contract with the possibility of renewal. International applicants are welcome. Please note: Although based at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, the position also involves considerable international travel (once that becomes possible again due to the COVID situation), so applicants must be prepared to work for extended periods in different locations as part of existing international teams for these projects.

Qualifications:
At a minimum, the candidates must possess a PhD in cell or molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, bioengineering, biotechnology, veterinary sciences, bioinformatics, nutrition or related disciplines. Demonstrated experience in forms of microscopy, various molecular and biochemical analytical techniques, and statistical software are essential. Knowledge of cell cultures, cell signaling, and/or polymeric chemistry would be desirable. For the second and third topic, additional experience in bioanalytical assays and work with microalgae, fungi, or cyanobacteria would be considered assets. It is not a requirement to have prior experience with aquaculture, aquaponics or hydroponic crop production (commercial greenhouse facilities), but such experience would be advantageous. For the second and third topics, please note clearly on your application if you have any relevant skills such as technical operation of aquarium, aquaculture tanks or multiphase bioreactors, as well as experience in hydroponic, plant nutrition or irrigation systems.

The successful candidate must have excellent English verbal and written communication skills. In addition to exemplary teamwork and communication skills, the position will involve project planning and coordination (experimental design, purchasing, logistics), therefore demonstrated independence in that regard would be assets.

The application must include:
A CV and cover letter that describes how the applicant meets the selection criteria
Evidence of strong academic writing skills (full text of at least three first-author peer-reviewed manuscripts, any reports or project/grant proposals written, and a copy of the PhD dissertation)
If not included on the CV, name and contact details of three referees attached in a file entitled References your name.pdf
If the following items are not evident on the CV, please state clearly in the cover letter (a) your willingness to travel internationally for research periods in collaborating labs (b) evidence of teamwork (c) competence with specific statistical software.

Institution: The University of Gothenburg has 38 000 students and 6 000 employees, and is one of the largest universities in Scandinavia. Strong research and study programs attract scientists and students from around the world. The position is within the Department of Marine Sciences: https://www.gu.se/en/marina-vetenskaper

For more information, please contact Dr. Alyssa Joyce alyssa.joyce@gu.se

More information about the research group can be found here: https://www.gu.se/en/about/find-staff/alyssajoyce