IntroductionAre you fascinated by the diverse ways through which microorganisms may respond and evolve under different environments? Would you like to use such knowledge to help find solutions for one of the biggest challenges of your generation,
i.e., sustainability?
The Molecular Microbial Physiology (MMP) group, part of the
Bacterial Cell Biology & Physiology (BCBP) groups, investigates key processes related to microbial physiology, evolution and multi-level regulation. It links such fundamental knowledge with important applications mostly related to sustainability and green biotechnology.
For a new project, we are looking for a highly qualified and motivated PhD candidate to conduct research activities, resulting in a doctoral dissertation under the supervision of
Dr. Filipe Branco dos Santos. If you enjoy performing experimental work with a strong computational and
in silico component, perform and analyse '-omics' data, and work in a diverse team, then this position is perfect for you!
What are you going to doThe project you will be working on is aimed at unveiling fundamental mechanisms through which the cyanobacterium
Synechocystis(and related strains) responds and adapts under different environmental conditions. It will focus on studying the response to environments that are likely to be useful during biotechnological applications that exploit the ability of these organisms to synthesize valuable products directly from CO2, fueled only by (sun)light.
Additionally, you will expand the work already initiated at MMP-UvA that combines this knowledge with the development of
in silicometabolic engineering tools that aim at the development of stable cell factories. All the basic required equipment, biological materials and computational software on which you will be expected to expand upon are available from the start of the project. You will be trained on site and in specialized courses.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Complete and defend a PhD thesis within the official appointment duration of four years;
- Plan and perform scientific data analysis and experiments in an independent manner;
- Critically analyze and interpret results;
- Take a leading role in writing manuscripts;
- Present your results at (inter)national scientific meetings;
- Collaborate with international and local researchers;
- Participate in the Faculty of Science PhD training programme;
- Assist in teaching undergraduates and Master's students;
- Co-supervise junior scientists (technicians, MSc/BSc students).