30 hours/week, for 3.5 years
PhD position in Protein Chemistry within the laboratory of Dr. Anne Conibear at TU Wien (Vienna, Austria) is available for a motivated and talented early-career scientist. This PhD position offers the opportunity to develop independence, leadership, and a wide range of research skills, with the support and mentorship of a ‘hands-on’ supervisor in a small and vibrant international team.
The interdisciplinary project bridges synthetic chemistry, protein biochemistry and structural biology and is funded by an FWF stand-alone grant. The vision is to bring the precision of protein semi-synthesis for installing site-specific posttranslational modifications (PTMs) and stable isotope labels into a cellular context, focusing on the nucleosomal protein HMGN1. The unique HMGN1 variants synthesised in this project will enable us to probe in vitro and in vivo interactions. A new strategic collaboration with Dr. Hugo van Ingen (Utrecht University) brings complementary expertise in structural biology and in-cell NMR spectroscopy, with opportunities for student exchange.
The position within the Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, at TU Wien is as Project Assistant (Prae-doc) for 3.5 years for 30 hours/week. Expected start: from October 2022 (negotiable). This PhD position is advertised for 3.5 years, starting with a contract duration of 1 year, which will be extended to a duration of 3.5 years, unless the employer submits a non-extension notification after 10 months. The candidate is expected to enrol as a PhD candidate at TU Wien within the first six months.
Tasks
The candidate will be involved in the synthesis, purification and analysis of synthetic peptides, as well as expression of proteins, fluorescent and stable isotope labelling, and chemoselective ligations. Participation in scientific dissemination activities, writing of publications, collaboration on research tasks, laboratory and project management skills will be developed. Involvement in teaching activities, such as supervision of laboratory courses and administration is expected.
Your profile
Essential criteria:
- Completion of a master or diploma curriculum in chemistry or biochemistry, or closely related field. (Or equivalent international qualifications for admission to TU Wien doctoral programmes https://www.tuwien.at/en/studies/studies/doctoral-programmes)
- Interest in research in the field of protein chemistry: Curiosity, self-motivation, resilience and willingness to learn.
- Ability to carry out laboratory experimental work and data analysis skilfully and responsibly.
- Enthusiasm for teaching and scientific communication.
- Evidence of good communication and writing ability in English.
Beneficial criteria:
- Experience in any of the following: peptide synthesis, protein expression and purification, mammalian cell culture or protein NMR spectroscopy.
- Knowledge of German for oral and written communication.
- Experience in teaching or laboratory course supervision.
We offer
- Exciting and challenging research in an emerging, collaborative, interdisciplinary field.
- Opportunities to gain expertise in a wide range of experimental techniques at the interface of chemistry and biology, increasing employability for careers in industry and academia.
- The opportunity to develop leadership skills, creativity and initiative, contributing to the research culture of a diverse and international team.
- Opportunities to present at national and international conferences.
- Continuing personal and professional education, mentorship and career development.
- Central location in Vienna with very good accessibility close to a main subway station.
- A creative environment in the heart of one of the most liveable cities in the world.
How to apply
Please send the application documents listed below as .pdf files by email to anne.conibear@tuwien.ac.at, quoting the reference PhD_P36101_YourSurname as the subject:
- Letter of motivation in English or German (maximum 2 pages), describing your research interests, goals, experience and fit with the selection criteria.
- University degree certificates and transcript (courses and grades).
- Academic curriculum vitae including any publications and/or teaching experience.
- Names and contact details of two referees. (People with whom you have worked closely and who can comment on your attitude, technical skills and collegiality).
We look forward to receiving your application by 31.08.2022.
For further information, please contact Dr. Anne Conibear by email: anne.conibear@tuwien.ac.at
Website: https://www.ias.tuwien.ac.at/hm/anne-claire-conibear
TU Wien is committed to increasing the proportion of women in particular leadership positions. Female candidates are explicitly encouraged to apply.
People with special needs are equally encouraged to apply. In case of any questions, please contact the confidant for disabled persons at the university, Mr Gerhard Neustätter (gerhard.neustaetter@tuwien.ac.at).
Entry level salary as a predoctoral researcher is covered by level B1 of the Austrian Collective Agreement for university staff, and receives a minimum of currently EUR 2 300/month gross, 14 times/year (EUR 32 200/year) for 30 hours/week, and includes social security.
Candidates are not eligible for a refund of expenses for travelling and lodging related to the application process.
More Informations: https://www.ias.tuwien.ac.at/hm/anne-claire-conibear/join-us