We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated research scientist to join a multi-disciplinary team interfacing between academia and industry. This project will be carried out in the laboratory of Prof. Giovanni Maglia, Chemical biology, of the University of Groningen, the Netherlands, and it is co-managed and sponsored by Oxford Nanopore Technologies, UK.

The aim of the project is to develop a panel of protein sensors that will be integrated into a nanopore-based detector. The chemistry will be tested and developed on Oxford Nanopore’s portable MinION platform, with the aim of building a portable prototype device for the direct detection of metabolites in blood, urine or sweat. If necessary, the affinity of the protein sensor for the ligand will be modulated to recognize the ligand at physiological concentrations.

This project is ideal for a candidate that is willing to move towards an industrial post.
This project will be collaborative with Oxford Nanopore, so is ideal for those wishing to get some exposure to Industrial R&D.

The ideal candidate is highly motivated and will hold a PhD in Chemistry or Biochemistry. Prior experience in molecular cloning and molecular biology, such as recombinant DNA techniques, protein expression and purification (FPLC), is necessary. Knowledge of chemical modifications of proteins or peptides would be an advantage. Demonstrated experience in protein engineering would be highly appreciated.

Fixed-term contract: 48 months.

The University of Groningen offers a salary dependent on qualifications and work experience of €2,588 gross per month up to a maximum of € 4,084 gross per month (salary scale 10 Dutch Universities) for a full-time job. This position is defined according to the UFO function profile 'researcher 4'. The appointment is temporary for a period of two years with the perspective of prolongation with two additional years.

How to apply
You may apply for this position until 15 January 23:59 h / before 16 January 2018 (Dutch local time) by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

Applications for the position should include:
- curriculum vitae (name, address, degree(s) with transcript(s) of grades, research experience, educational and employment history, etc.) Please include the University and GPA of your BSc and MSc, as well as any awards, distinctions, and publications within the body of your email
- motivation letter
- name and (email) address of three academic references.

The preferred starting date will be as soon as possible.

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global center of knowledge.

Oxford Nanopore Technologies was founded in 2005 to develop ultra-sensitive electrical single-molecule sensing technologies. Our company has generated a next-generation DNA sequencing technology which is based on protein nanopores. Our first platform for this technology is a revolutionary handheld USB device for high-throughput DNA and RNA sequencing, called MinION, which is now sold worldwide.