The Faculty of Science / the Institute for Biology is looking for a:

Junior Technician for Synthetic Biology
Vacancy number: 13848

Key responsibilities
The Junior Technician will work on the metabolic engineering of the microorganism Paracoccus denitrificans to enable the coupling of this CO2-fixing bacterium to quantum dots. Using genetic engineering approaches, electron-shuttling proteins will be implemented in the host bacterium. Their function will subsequently be validated by biochemical and electrochemical approaches. Motivation, flexibility, analytical thinking, and the ability to work independently will be vital to establish this innovative line of research.
The successful applicant will work both at the Institute of Biology Leiden and the Leiden Institute of Chemistry. This NWO-funded position is ideal for a recent MSc graduate who wants to gain additional experience before starting a PhD or an industry position, while already receiving a salary.

Selection Criteria

• MSc in microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related discipline;
• previous experience in standard molecular biology and metabolic engineering laboratory techniques, such as molecular cloning, protein biochemistry, and strain engineering;
• previous experience in the growth, handling, and genetic modification of prokaryotic microorganisms;
• a previous record of theoretical or practical expertise in electrochemistry is highly beneficial;
• a keen interest in contributing to building a cutting-edge research environment;
• good communication and teamworking skills;
• fluent written and spoken English.

Research at our faculty
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 2300 {see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/wiskunde-en-natuurwetenschappen} staff and almost 5000 {see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/wiskunde-en-natuurwetenschappen} 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.

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

The Institute for Biology Leiden
The research within the Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL) aims to work on the science base of biodiversity and health, which is reflected in our leading principle Harnessing Biodiversity for Health. We perform innovative curiosity-driven research to answer fundamental questions, and solutions-driven research to help solving major societal challenges. The latter include protecting nature’s biodiversity, creating sustainable biotechnology and agriculture and increasing good health. Our research focuses on four Research Themes: Bioactive Molecules, Host-Microbe Interactions, Development & Disease and Evolution & Biodiversity. Located in a thriving scientific environment with our Faculty of Sciences, Naturalis Biodiversity Centre, the Leiden University Medical Centre and the Leiden Bioscience Park, IBL offers an exciting, internationally oriented and inclusive place to work and study.

The Leiden Institute of Chemistry
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.

Terms and conditions
The desired starting date for the position is October 1, 2023. The position is offered for 9-12 months. The exact duration of the position and the salary level will be decided upon together with the successful applicant.
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 Dr. Lennart Schada von Borzyskowski, Assistant Professor at the IBL (L.Schada.von.Borzyskowski@biology.leidenuniv.nl), or Prof. dr. Lars Jeuken, Professor at the LIC (l.j.c.jeuken@lic.leidenuniv.nl). If you have any questions about the procedure, please contact Christina Kamerman (jobs@biology.leidenuniv.nl).

Applications
To apply for this vacancy, please apply via the blue button.Please ensure that you attach the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:

• CV
• cover letter
• contact details of two referees

Only applications received before August 1, 2023 can be considered.