VIB
Job title:
Postdoc Position in Phytoplankton Metabolism & Marine Carbon Storage
Company
VIB
Job description
Job description
Marine microbes, starting with phytoplankton, drive Earth’s carbon cycle by capturing atmospheric CO₂ and converting it into dissolved molecules that can resist degradation for months, years, or even millennia. Our lab aims to resolve the molecular mechanisms behind this process, focusing on how promiscuous enzymes (un)intentionally transform cellular metabolites into degradation-resistant forms. By identifying the biochemical factors that govern carbon storage in the ocean, we hope to better assess the impact of human activities on this reservoir and provide transferable results to develop new carbon capture technologies.
We are seeking a motivated postdoc to identify biochemical activities in phytoplankton that convert intracellular metabolites into stable, degradation-resistant forms. The ideal candidate must have extensive experience culturing marine phytoplankton, particularly marine diatoms and/or cyanobacteria, and a strong background in molecular-level mechanisms of cellular metabolism or physiology. Experience in genetic engineering of phytoplankton or mass spectrometry-based metabolomics is a plus.
The postdoc will get training in high-throughput metabolomics and combining it with enzyme assays, and will get plenty of hands-on time with new mass spectrometers. This is a starting lab, and we are searching for a postdoc to play a prominent leadership role in shaping the lab environment and mentoring younger students. The postdoc will also gain the advantage of participating interdisciplinary collaborations, and should be eager about this, as it can broaden their scientific network and research repertoire. Who we are
The lab of Sammy Pontrelli started at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology in January 2025. Our interdisciplinary research involves developing metabolomics methodology to study enzymes, microbial physiology, and microbial communities in new ways. The overarching goal is to identify the key factors controlling microbe-mediated carbon storage in the ocean, with a focus on using model microbial systems in the lab.
VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute across 5 universities with a strong track record of translating scientific breakthroughs into societal innovations and biotech companies. The Center for Microbiology in Leuven is embedded within KU Leuven, one of Europe’s oldest and most prominent universities, consistently ranked in the top 50 worldwide. Leuven is located 10 miles from Brussels, with frequent direct train connections to Brussels airport.Profile
Essential
PhD in a biologically related field (Microbiology, biotechnology, etc)
Wet lab experience working with marine phytoplankton
Wet lab experience with molecular biology, genetic tools or enzyme assays
Experience leading a molecular level, biologically oriented project
Excellent communication skills in English
Desirable but not required
Skills in phytoplankton genetic engineering
Hands-on experience with high resolution mass spectrometers and/or data analysis
Programming skills in RKey personal characteristics
Enthusiasm to participate in interdisciplinary collaborations
Ability to take on leadership and mentoring roles in a starting lab
Commitment to an inclusive and diverse lab, promoting a positive environment We offer
State-of-the-art QTOF mass spectrometers and other equipmentAbility to work on high-impact research topicsPossibility to participate in interdisciplinary conferencesTraining in high throughput metabolomics, enzymology, and microbial physiologyHow to apply?
The starting date is May-Sept 2025, with a starting contract of 2 years, and a possible extension to 3-5 years.
If you are interested, please include the following in your application:
A description of why you are interested in this postdoc position and your career aspirationsA description of your previous metabolomics and wet lab experience, and the biological questions you addressed in your PhD.Your CVContact information of at least 2 referencesPlease submit applications before April 15 2025.
Expected salary
Location
Leuven, Vlaams Brabant
Job date
Wed, 26 Feb 2025 23:55:34 GMT
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