Job description

Exciting opportunities are available for a highly motivated and talented individual to join the Laboratory of Giovanni Maglia at the University of Groningen as a Postdoctoral or PhD Researchers. We are seeking passionate researchers who are eager to contribute to our ongoing efforts in understanding the intricacies of protein structure and function at the single-molecule level. These positions are sponsored by national (NWO – Dutch Research Council) and international (NIH – USA National Institute of Health) research organizations and focus on the cutting-edge field of single-molecule protein sequencing and enzymology with nanopores.

Research ProjectThe successful candidates will be involved in an interdisciplinary project that combines expertise in biochemistry, biophysics, and nanotechnology. The primary objective of these projects is to develop innovative techniques for the sequencing of individual protein molecules using nanopores. By leveraging the unique properties of nanopores, we also aim to unravel the dynamics of protein folding and unfolding, as well as investigate enzymatic processes with high spatiotemporal resolution. Each projects offer an exceptional opportunity to make ground-breaking discoveries in the field of protein science while working in a collaborative and stimulating research environment. These positions cover a wide range of backgrounds, interests, and skillsets including chemical Biology, molecular biology, protein engineering, physics and data analysis.

Responsibilities:

design and conduct experiments related to single-molecule protein sequencing and enzymology using nanopores
develop and optimize experimental protocols for protein analysis and characterization
perform data analysis and interpretation, employing advanced computational tools and statistical methods
contribute to the development of novel nanopore-based techniques and instrumentation
build microfluidic devices for nanopore sensing
collaborate with other members of the research team and actively participate in scientific discussions and meetings
publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
present research outcomes at international conferences and workshops

OrganisationFounded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programmes and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 31,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global center of knowledge.

Qualifications

Ph.D. degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Nanotechnology, or a related field (obtained within the last three years or near completion). Or a Master’s degree in case you are applying for the PhD position
strong background and hands-on experience in single-molecule techniques, protein analysis, protein engineering and enzymology
proficiency in experimental design, data acquisition, and statistical analysis
experience with nanopore technology is highly desirable
familiarity with computational tools for data processing and analysis
excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
good communication and presentation skills
excellent proficiency in English language
a record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals is advantageous

Organisation

Conditions of employment

What do we offer:

a stimulating and collaborative scientific environment
access of state-of-the-art devices and techniques in nanopore analysis
a beautiful and modern working environment

In accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

for the PhD position: a salary of € 2,541 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 3,247 gross per month (based on fulltime employment) in the fourth and final year. The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is to be expected. A PhD training program is part of the agreement and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science and Engineering
for the postdoc position: a temporary appointment of three years and a salary from a minimum of € 3,557 gross per month up to a maximum of € 4,670 gross per month (salary scale 10) based on a full-time position and dependent on qualification and work experience. Assistance and training in grant writing and academic training including a personal budget of € 1,000 per year for career-related training activities
a full-time position (1.0 FTE)
a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income
an 8.3% end-of-year bonus and participation in a pension scheme for employees
career services for partners of new faculty members moving to Groningen

The preferred starting date is as soon as possible.

Application

You may apply for this position by means of the online application form (click on “Apply” below on the advertisement on the university website). Please send us a complete application with the below-mentioned supporting documents as a single PDF:

cover letter with background and motivation
curriculum vitae including a publication list
contact information of two or more referees who are willing to provide letters of recommendation
copies of relevant academic transcripts

Applications should be submitted as soon as possible and before 14 September 2023 (until 13 September 2023 11:59 PM Dutch local time CEST). Applications will be assessed regularly as soon as they are submitted.

The University of Groningen strives to be a university in which students and staff are respected and feel at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identities. We believe that working on our core values of inclusion and equality are a joint responsibility and we are constructively working on creating a socially safe environment. Diversity among students and staff members enriches academic debate and contributes to the quality of our teaching and research. We therefore invite applicants from underrepresented groups in particular to apply. For more information, see also our diversity policy webpage: https://www.rug.nl/(…)rsity-and-inclusion/ Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the Recruitment code (NVP): https://www.nvp-hrnetwerk.nl/nl/sollicitatiecode and European Commission’s European Code of Conduct for recruitment of researchers: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Information

For information you can contact:

Dr Giovanni Maglia, giovanni.maglia@rug.nl

Please do not use the e-mail address(es) above for applications.