Postdoctoral Fellow in Microbiota and Metabolism

Göteborg University

Description

The University of Gothenburg tackles society's challenges with diverse knowledge. 49 000 students and 6 400 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

The Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine conducts translational research primarily on metabolism, diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease in order to improve health and healthcare in the community. The overall goal is to create an excellent translational research environment of a very high international standard.

Up to 90% of the cells in the human body are of microbial origin. We have demonstrated that the gut microbiota may have profound effects on host metabolism by combining gnotobiotic animal models with clinical material. Our working hypothesis is that the several of the effects the microbiota has on host physiology are mediated through metabolites they produce. We are now recruiting a postdoctoral fellow to investigate activity and function in microbial enzymes and also assessing the effects on host physiology.

Subject area

Microbiota and metabolism

Subject area description

The gut microbiota contains 1000-fold more genes than our own genome contains. Several of these microbial genes encode enzymes that can produce bioactive metabolites. Even if just started to scratch the surface it has started to become obvious that several of these metabolites may have profound effect on our physiology and metabolism. For example, they can increase or decrease insulin sensitivity and other metabolic phenotypes.

Job assignments

Characterize different bacteria's capacity to produce bioactive metabolites in vitro by culturing them alone or in consortia with other bacteria. Determine the amount of produced metabolites by mass-spectrophotometry. Colonize germ-free mice with bacteria and isogenic mutants to evaluate effects on the enteric nervous system and the mouse physiology. In order to investigate signaling mechanisms genetically modified mice will be used.

Eligibility

To qualify as a postdoctoral researcher the applicant should hold a PhD in a relevant subject. Since postdoctoral constitutes a qualifying appointment for junior researchers, we aim to target those who have a doctoral degree not older than 3 years from the application deadline.

Assessment

Strong background in microbiota research is a requirement. Experience of bacterial culturing and using germ-free mice are strong merits. Knowledge in mass spectrometry, evaluation of the enteric nervous system's development, and metabolic phenotyping of genetically modified mice are merits. It is essential that the applicant can interact with other researchers and clinicians within a greater team and large emphasis is on personality.

Employment

Type of employment: Fixed-term employment, 24 months Extent: 100 % Location: Institute of Medicine, Gothenburg First day of employment: As soon as possible

For further information:

Fredrik Bäckhed, Professor, +46(0)31-3427833, Fredrik.Backhed@wlab.gu.se

Malin Levin, Department manager, malin.levin@wlab.gu.se

Unions

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg: https: // www. gu.se/en/about-the-university/work-at-the-university-of- gothenburg/how-to-apply

Information for International Applicants

Choosing a career in a foreign country is a big step. Thus, to give you a general idea of what we and Gothenburg have to offer in terms of benefits and life in general for you and your family/spouse/partner please visit:

https: // www. gu.se/en/about-the-university/welcome-services https: // www. movetogothenburg.com/

How to apply

Personal letter with name and contact information for three references, CV, and copy of PhD diploma.

In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline. The selection of candidates is made on the basis of the qualifications registered in the application.

Closing date: 2021-01-05

The University of Gothenburg promotes equal opportunities, equality and diversity.

Salary is determined on an individual basis.

Applications will be destroyed or returned (upon request) two years after the decision of employment has become final. Applications from the employed and from those who appeal the decision will not be returned.

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