Job Summary Table of Cyanobacteria Research Associate

Job Description Summary

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge is seeking a post-doctoral Research Associate to join Dr Jenny Zhang’s team. This exciting role focuses on developing new cyanobacterial mutants with enhanced ability to generate electricity, contributing to groundbreaking research in sustainable energy conversion biotechnologies.

Responsibilities

• Employ genetic engineering approaches, including CRISPR(i) systems and directed evolution workflows, to engineer cyanobacteria
• Select and characterize cyanobacteria with enhanced extracellular electron transfer activity
• Work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams to fully characterize mutants
• Contribute to the potential utilization of mutants in energy conversion biotechnologies
• Conduct independent research within the scope of the project
• Analyze and interpret experimental data
• Prepare research findings for publication and presentation

Benefits and Perks

• Opportunity to work with state-of-the-art biophysical techniques
• Training in bioelectrochemistry and pump-probe spectroscopy
• Personal development and leadership skills enhancement
• Collaborative work environment in a world-renowned institution
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources
• Potential for career advancement in the field of sustainable energy research

Company Overview

The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, renowned for its groundbreaking research and academic excellence. The Department of Chemistry, where this position is based, is at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation.

Company Culture

The University of Cambridge fosters a culture of intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and innovation. Researchers are encouraged to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge while working in a supportive and inclusive environment. The Department of Chemistry holds an Athena SWAN silver award, demonstrating its commitment to advancing women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM).

Career Growth Opportunities

This position offers excellent opportunities for career growth in the rapidly evolving field of sustainable energy research. Working alongside leading experts and utilizing advanced technologies, the successful candidate will gain valuable experience and skills that can propel their career in academia or industry.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The University of Cambridge is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. It actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from all sections of society. The university strives to create a sense of belonging for all its employees, valuing different perspectives and experiences.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Cambridge is an equal opportunity employer. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their background.

Remote Work Policy

This position requires on-site work at the Department of Chemistry in Cambridge, UK. The nature of the research involves hands-on laboratory work and collaboration with team members, necessitating a physical presence at the facility.

Application Process

1. Review the job requirements and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria
2. Prepare your Curriculum Vitae (CV), covering letter, and publications list
3. Register an account on the University of Cambridge recruitment system (if you haven’t already)
4. Submit your application online through the provided ‘Apply’ button
5. Upload your CV, covering letter, and publications list in the designated section
6. Await confirmation of your application submission

Application Deadline

Info not available

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please visit the University of Cambridge Jobs website and click on the ‘Apply’ button. Ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a covering letter, and publications list in the upload section of the online application. Please note that any additional documents uploaded that have not been requested will not be considered as part of your application.

For any queries related to your application or the application process, please contact Dr Jenny Zhang via email at jz366@cam.ac.uk. When corresponding about this vacancy, please quote the reference number MA42422.

FAQs or Additional Information

Q: What is the duration of this position?

A: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Q: Are there any specific requirements for applying?

A: Applicants should have (or be about to obtain) a PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, synthetic biology, or related disciplines. Experience in genetic engineering of cyanobacteria is essential.

Q: What additional skills are desired for this role?

A: Experience in characterization techniques such as microscopy, bioinformatics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics is desired.

Q: Is visa sponsorship available for this position?

A: Information about visa sponsorship is not explicitly provided. However, the University states that it has a responsibility to ensure all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Q: What is the Athena SWAN silver award mentioned in the job posting?

A: The Athena SWAN silver award is a recognition given to institutions that demonstrate commitment to advancing women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM).

This Research Associate position at the University of Cambridge offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable energy technologies. By focusing on the genetic engineering of cyanobacteria for enhanced electricity generation, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of bioelectrochemistry and its potential applications.

Working under the guidance of Dr Jenny Zhang, the Research Associate will employ state-of-the-art techniques in genetic engineering, including CRISPR(i) systems and directed evolution workflows. This hands-on experience with advanced biotechnological tools will provide invaluable skills for future career development in both academia and industry.

The multidisciplinary nature of the project ensures exposure to a wide range of scientific disciplines, from molecular biology to biophysics. Collaborating with experts across these fields will broaden the researcher’s scientific perspective and foster the development of crucial teamwork and communication skills.

Moreover, the position offers training in cutting-edge biophysical techniques such as bioelectrochemistry and pump-probe spectroscopy. This technical expertise, combined with the opportunity to develop personal and leadership skills, creates a comprehensive package for professional growth.

The University of Cambridge’s reputation for academic excellence and groundbreaking research provides an ideal environment for scientific discovery. The Department of Chemistry’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, as evidenced by its Athena SWAN silver award, ensures a supportive and equitable workplace for all researchers.

For those passionate about sustainable energy solutions and eager to contribute to the field of bioelectrochemistry, this Research Associate position represents an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact while advancing their career in a world-class institution.

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