[Expired] PhD position, to study bacterial bioenergetics and electron transport proteins, Leiden Univ.

The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Chemistry are looking for a PhD student, to apply novel biophysical methods to the study of bacterial bioenergetics and electron transport proteins. Vacancy number: 22-069

Key responsibilities

Bacterial electron transport proteins are highlighted as a new target space for the development of novel antibiotics. Understanding these enzyme complexes requires novel tools that study these enzymes in a native-like lipid membrane environment. The PhD student will carry research leading to a PhD degree, and use membrane biochemistry, bioelectrochemistry and fluorescent microscopy to study transmembrane electron and proton transport on the ensemble and, then, single-enzyme level. The PhD student must be flexible and communicative and able to work in both biochemical and biophysical labs, learn advanced bioelectrochemical methods and use (semi)automated computational analysis of large datasets.

Selection Criteria

  • Master degree in biochemistry, life-science technology or equivalent
  • Proven interest in either membrane protein function, single-enzyme research or bioinorganic chemistry
  • Proficient in English
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Capable of independent working as well as working in a (interdisciplinary) team
  • Ambitious with good time-management skills to work effectively towards a long-term goal

Start of the project will be between April and September 2022.

Our organisation

The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2.300 staff and more than 5.000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

The chemistry and life science research in the Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) is organized around two major research areas: ‘Chemical Biology’ and ‘Energy & Sustainability’. The institute’s research themes illustrate the central position of chemistry between biology, medicine and physics. The various research topics carried out within these themes are ideal for executing interdisciplinary research.

For more information, see  www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science  and  https://workingat.leiden.edu/

Terms and conditions 

We offer a full-time position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities and compatibility the appointment will be extended by a further three years. Salary range from € 2.434 to € 3.111 gross per month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. For more information, see the website (https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions).

All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science www.graduateschools.leidenuniv.nl. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness.

Diversity

Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups.

Information

Enquiries can be made to Prof.dr. Lars Jeuken ().

Applications

To apply for this vacancy, please send an email to Thomas Kalkman (). Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:

  • Letter of motivation addressed to Prof.dr. Lars Jeuken, including a statement why you are suited for this position;
  • Curriculum vitae;
  • Transcripts of bachelor and master curriculum courses, including grades;
  • Two references, including names, affiliations and email addresses.

Only applications received no later than 25 March 2022 can be considered. The procedure will be ended as soon as a suitable candidate has been found.