BACKGROUND:

The newly established Computational Protein Engineering (CPE) group at The Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability (DTU Biosustain) aims to engineer proteins more effectively using state-of-the-art research approaches, while contributing to the development of novel tools for in silico prediction of protein function.

We are an interdisciplinary group of scientists working at the interface of data science and machine/deep learning as well as protein modelling, directed evolution, biochemistry, enzymology, and metabolic engineering. The main goal is to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to the most pressing issues facing our societies in terms of bioproduction and bioremediation.

When joining our group, you get the opportunity to apply the latest algorithms for improving protein function, for instance, enzyme activity, selectivity, or stability, etc. We currently work with enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of natural products and biochemicals, but you will also have the chance to define your project within your own research interests if there is direction towards sustainability.

RESPONSIBILITIES & QUALIFICATIONS:

We are looking for a colleague that is independent, who thrives within an interdisciplinary environment at a world-class research centre, and who is highly motivated to move the area of enzyme engineering to the next level, while having a positive impact on our world.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze large enzymes datasets using state-of-the-art algorithms in machine and deep learning.
• Provide recommendations for guiding enzyme engineering in the laboratory.
• Develop workflows based on computational tools for the engineering of enzymes and proteins.
• Report your research results in peer-review scientific publications and international conferences.
• Collaborate within the CPE research group, across DTU and with our international network.
• Supervise PhD, MSc, and BSc students as well as research assistants.

Qualifications:

• PhD in data science, computational biology, chemistry, biophysics, biotechnology or related area.
• Experience in software development and data management (Jupyter Notebooks, Python, R, and other relevant programming languages).
• Excellent English proficiency in written and oral form.
• Excellent communication skills for working within an interdisciplinary research team.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work independently.
• Experience with bioinformatics and analysis of Next Generation Sequencing data is a plus.

Preferred qualifications but not mandatory:

• A strong publication record in peer-review scientific journals.
• Experience with grant and patent writing as well as teaching.
• Experience with genetic engineering, protein engineering and library generation.
• Experience with visualization and molecular modelling of protein dynamics and structure: GROMACS, AMBER, MOE, Rosetta, Schrödinger, AlphaFold2, Fold-X, PyMOL, Chimera, etc.
• Interest in applying machine/deep learning approaches to protein dynamics.
• Interest in entrepreneurship to make a positive impact on planetary and human health.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

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 & 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 position is full time. The preferred starting date is 1 October 2023, or according to our mutual agreement.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here: https://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Further information may be obtained from Carlos Acevedo-Rocha, cargac[at]biosustain.dtu.dk, +459351 0848. Google Scholar profile: Citations: https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=yZDS88IAAAAJ

More information about DTU Biosustain: http://www.biosustain.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: https://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/moving-to-denmark

HOW TO APPLY:

Apply online for the position here:

Postdoc in Machine/Deep Learning for Enzyme Engineering – DTU Biosustain:

https://efzu.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/2022/?utm_medium=jobshare

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", 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

DEADLINE:

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 30 July 2023 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

ABOUT US:

DTU Biosustain is an interdisciplinary research centre that develops new knowledge and technology to support the production of biochemicals, natural products and microbial foods using fermentation processes based on microbial hosts or enzymatic processes.

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 13,400 students and 5,800 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.

POLICY:

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.