Ireland : Postdoctoral Researcher Enzyme Biotechnology for Biomass to Bioenergy & Biorefinery applications

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a fixed-term contract position as a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Molecular Glycobiotechnology Group (Biochemistry) and Energy Research Centre at NUI Galway. 

School of Natural Sciences - Ref. No. NUIG- 04-10,

This position is funded by the Bioenergy and Biorefinery Competence Centre (BBCC) award, which is an Industry-led Enterprise Ireland/IDA initiative between NUI Galway and partner Universities. In the initial phase BBCC research programme, a strand will develop novel and innovative Green (Bio) Technology by mining the genome of a novel thermophilic fungal species to develop novel and highly efficient enzyme systems (thermozymes) and microorganisms for conversion of sustainable grass feedstocks and macroalgae to high-value products, including biofuels and biochemicals. Close collaboration with the industrial partners is envisaged to ensure development, downstream translation and scale-up of the anticipated novel green technologies.

This position will lead key tasks that will mine the genome of a novel thermophilic fungal species to produce novel enzyme systems and bio-engineered microorganisms for conversion of the target agri and marine residues to biofuels and (bio) chemicals. In addition, the successful candidate will also have an opportunity to collaborate with the industry partners to develop future optimization, application and scale-up of novel technology to pilot-scale, especially in the area of bioethanol production.

Applicant’s Specifications:
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline, with a minimum of 5 years postdoctoral experience in fungal genetics, molecular biology and bio-mining. A strong track record in the cloning, engineering & overexpression of biomass-converting and metabolic enzymes is essential, while experience in fungal genomics is desirable. Experience of Bioinformatics and Fungal transformation is essential. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years recent post-doctoral experience, ideally in academic and industrial R&D environments, ideally in the Bioenergy and/or Biorefinery sectors. Candidates must have a demonstrated track record in leading and managing projects in a team environment, including meeting key targets, goals and deliverables. Candidates must also have excellent communication and writing skills. Experience of the commercialisation of research, technology transfer and Intellectual Property management is essential. This position offers potential candidates an opportunity to work in a challenging and dynamic team environment, to develop novel and highly innovative biotechnology in Green Technology, a priority research area of national and international importance and to develop valuable skills of relevance to Industry sector and Smart Economy, in leading-edge technology development and scale-up.

Informal enquiries about this position may be made to Dr. Maria Tuohy at: Tel: + 353 (0) 91 49 2439 or via Email: maria.tuohy@nuigalway.ie

Salary: €38,285 - €44,872 per annum (commensurate with qualifications and experience) 

Start date: March 2010 This full-time post will be initially for a period of 12 months. There is a possibility of extension pending further funding.

To Apply: Applications in the form of a CV, covering letter and the names and contact details of three referees should be sent via email (in word or PDF) to: mary.gannon@nuigalway.ie Please put reference number NUIG- 04-10 in subject line of e-mail application.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00pm on Friday 5th February 2010.

Further Information

Application Deadline : 5 February 2010

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Posted on 2010-01-26 11:08:01

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