The Biosciences Center at NREL has an opening for a full time Postdoctoral Researcher. The initial appointment is for one year, with possible renewal up to three years.
The incoming postdoc will collaborate on a multidisciplinary research project focused on the biological conversion of syngas (CO2, CO, H2) by an anaerobic acetogenic bacterium. Successful candidates will use synthetic biology techniques to generate metabolically engineered strains with improved capabilities for upgrading one-carbon molecules into renewable fuels and chemicals. There will also be opportunities for bioprocess optimization and development of novel fermentation strategies across scales, from serum bottles up to 2L fermenters.
This position requires a recent (less than 3 years) Ph.D. in Biological Engineering, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or a closely related field.
Basic Qualifications
Must be a recent PhD graduate within the last three years.
* Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
Additional Required Qualifications
- Deep fundamental knowledge of bacterial metabolism.
- Mastery of molecular biology tools and techniques (PCR, plasmid design, bacterial cultivation, genetic transformation systems).
- Demonstrated experience in microbial metabolic engineering for designing, constructing, and evaluating novel strains.
- Exceptional organizational and written/oral communication skills.
- Capability to work independently in generating and testing of hypotheses.
Strong authorship track record in peer-reviewed publications.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience cultivating and genetically modifying non-model microbes, especially acetogens or other anaerobic bacteria.
- Experience in the setup, operation, and bioprocess optimization of bioreactors, particularly with gaseous feedstocks.
- Analytical chemistry skills (HPLC, GC) for identification and quantification of metabolites.
- Experience using CRISPR, or other advanced molecular biology techniques, such as for rationally engineering improved enzymes.
- Familiarity with gathering and analyzing large bioinformatics datasets (Whole genome sequencing, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, genome scale modeling, metabolic flux analysis).
Job Application Submission Window
The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.
Submission Guidelines
Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at NREL you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.
