In order to pursue our research activities, we are looking for a highly motivated PhD student who will contribute to an NWO-Vici project in the field of protein engineering and biocatalysis. This project aims to exploit the promiscuous Michael-type addition activity of 4-oxalocrotonate tautomerase as a starting point to develop novel synthetically useful C-C bond-forming enzymes, as well as to provide insight into the manner in which a promiscuous protein might evolve to acquire more active and specific enzyme functions (see: Van der Meer et al., 2016, Nat. Commun. 7:10911; doi: 10.1038/ncomms10911).

We are looking for an enthusiastic and talented PhD candidate with a master’s or equivalent degree in life science and technology, biotechnology or biochemistry, and with outstanding laboratory skills. Experience with protein engineering and/or X-ray crystallography is a big plus. You are expected to be fluent in the English language.

Fixed-term contract: 48 months.

The University of Groningen offers a salary of € 2,222 gross per month in the first year up to a maximum of € 2,840 gross per month in the fourth and final year, based on a full-time position (1.0 FTE), excluding a 8% holiday allowance and a 8.3% end-of-the-year bonus. The position is limited to a period of 4 years. The first year constitutes a probationary period, with an evaluation of the candidate’s performance after 9 months. The objective of this evaluation is to establish whether the candidate will be able to finish a PhD thesis in the remaining three years. If the performance evaluation is positive, the candidate’s contract will be extended by another 3 years, for a total of 4 years.

How to apply
You may apply for this position until 1 February 23:59 h / before 2 February 2018 Dutch local time by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

Applications should include include a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, and contact information of two academic referees. Applicants are also requested to submit a list of examination marks.

The preferred starting date is 1 April 2018.

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

The vacancy is at the Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology (Prof Dr Gerrit J. Poelarends; www.rug.nl/staff/g.j.poelarends/), Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen. The research of Professor Poelarends is aimed at the design of novel biocatalysts and enzymatic cascades for the synthesis of valuable chemicals and pharmaceuticals. We offer a stimulating research environment for a PhD student interested in these topics. The department’s research laboratories are well equipped for molecular biology, enzymology, protein engineering, biocatalysis, and organic chemistry work.

The University of Groningen (founded in 1614) has a long tradition of academic excellence, being one of the oldest research universities in Europe. The University is currently in or around the top 100 on several influential ranking lists. Currently approximately 30,000 students are enrolled and about 1,500 PhD students work on their theses. It has a highly international character: English is the main language in the research laboratories. The city of Groningen is a historic town and among the ten biggest cities in The Netherlands. It is a vibrant student town with a direct train connection to Schiphol Airport near Amsterdam.