A PostDoc position is available for experimental research on enzymes immobilized on polymeric and organic-inorganic hybrid matrices for catalysis of chemical reactions needed for transitioning to a sustainable and green society.
The candidate will work on visualizing the position, density, structure and dynamics of immobilized enzymes using a suite of state-of-the-art optical and electron microscopy techniques. The work is part of a highly interdisciplinary collaboration – Biocatalysts Interactions with Gases (BIG) – comprising novel characterization, analysis, testing, and modeling of gaseous substrates at immobilized enzymes, with international leading partners at North Carolina State University (NC State), Technical University of Denmark (DTU), and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
Responsibilities and tasks
You will work quantitatively with enzyme interaction with organic-inorganic hybrid matrices using state-of-the-art optical fluorescence microscopy (widefield, confocal and super-resolution modalities) as well as high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The work will include:
- developing pioneering methods for nanoscale imaging of enzymes immobilized at “soft matter” and inorganic surfaces to determine enzyme position, density and interaction with immobilization matrices.
- uncovering fundamental characteristics of matrices for efficient enzyme-catalyzed reactions with gaseous substrates.
- exploring factors influencing enzyme activity and longevity at immobilization matrices.
- using visualizations for understanding of enzyme structure-function aspects of catalysis.
You will be affiliated with the Center for Visualizing Catalytic Processes (VISION) at DTU Physics www.vision.dtu.dk and work closely with VISION’s faculty members, PhD students, postdocs and international leading collaborators all working at the technological edge of modern optical and electron microscopy. In close interplay with BIG’s complementary synthesis, characterization, functionality measurements and theoretical modelling, you will contribute to elucidating immobilized enzyme interfaces and their role in transformative chemistry.
As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).
We favor candidates with a degree in physics, chemistry or biology. The candidate should have documented experience with optical and electron microscopy and, preferably, have experience in biocatalysis and nanoscience. Experience in scientific programming, e.g. using Python, is important.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
The period of employment is 2 years. The starting date is as soon as possible.
Experimental work will be conducted at DTU Physics, Novonesis A/S and Topsoe A/S (all in Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark) and as well as at affiliated laboratories abroad.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor Stig Helveg, stig@fysik.dtu.dk from VISION at DTU Physics.
You can read more about DTU Physics at www.fysik.dtu.dk.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
Please submit your complete online application no later than 8 December 2024 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- Application (cover letter)
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
