Postdoctoral Researcher position to work on "Yeast Improvement for Microbial oils production from volatile fatty acids”

IMDEA Energy Institute is a María de Maeztu Center of Excellence whose objective is to develop R&D activities in the fields of renewable energies and clean energy technologies by establishing strong links with leading companies in the energy sector. (www.energy.imdea.org).

Description

This position is open in the frame of OLEOFERM Project (EraCoBiotech) devoted to the Sustainable oleochemicals bioproduction from carboxylates via oleaginous fermentation.  In OLEOFERM, volatile fatty acids (VFAs) will be used as an alternative and innovative carbon source during the culture of yeast for microbial lipid production. 

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate, capable of driving his/her own research project independently while actively collaborating with other members of the lab.

Tasks Description:

  • Fermentation tasks at different scales.
  • Yeast genetic engineering (mainly of non-Saccharomyces strains) to improve the yeast fermentation capacity and microbial oil production from VFAs.
  • To generate research output and contribute to the development of independent and original ideas.
  • Communicate and disseminate research results through high-quality scientific channels including high impact scientific publications, presentation in congresses, etc.
  • Writing of project proposals to national and international calls related to the topic.
  • Supervision of PhD, Master or undergraduate students.
Requirements

Compulsory Requirements: 

- PhD degree in Biology, Yeast Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.

- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. 

Merits to value:

- Accredited experience on fermentation technology and molecular biology of yeast.

- Experience in yeast fermentation of alternative carbon sources.

- Knowledge on molecular biology techniques for non-conventional yeast.

- Strong publication record. 

- Experience in national and international research projects.
Selection Criteria
  • Adequacy of the candidate's training and experience to the requested profile.
  • Quality and impact of scientific publications.
  • Motivation for accomplishing high-quality research.
  • Experience in national and international research projects.
  • Knowledge of English.
Conditions

Remuneration: Between 35.000€ – 38.000€ per year, depending upon qualification and expertise.

*The contract includes all the benefits of the Spanish Public Health and Social Security System.

Duration of the contract: One year renewable appointment depending on performance.
Workplace

IMDEA Energy Institute, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
Documents

Final decisions will be personally communicated by e-mail to all candidates.

 

Equal opportunities are guaranteed in the selection process, without any forms of discrimination. Female  applicants are encouraged to apply to favor parity in employment.
IMDEA Energy commitment is to guarantee equality in measures to balance personal, family and working life and to promote gender equality.