Postdoctoral Researcher in Protein-Based Electronic Components

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Specific Subject Description

The postdoctoral researcher will work on a project focused on developing protein-based electronic components, with the ultimate goal of enabling the production of semiconductor components in cells.

This specific postdoctoral project aims to develop methods for designing 2D protein lattices that serve as scaffolds to attach other protein complexes with precise geometry, thereby creating molecular structures that can transfer electrons and interact with light. Such compositions also have applications in biomedicine. The primary goal is to develop computational methods, using deep learning-based protein design, for the successful design of 2D lattices. These methods will then be applied to generate designs targeted for experimental evaluation.

Job Responsibilities

The main responsibilities of the postdoctoral researcher include conducting research. Teaching may be included in the responsibilities, but no more than one-fifth of the working time. Within the framework of the employment, there will be an opportunity for three weeks of higher education pedagogical training.

The responsibilities also include (e.g.):

• Method development in AI-driven protein design
• Production of designed sequences targeted for experimental testing
• Collaboration with a PhD student responsible for experimental testing
• If interested, some experimental tests may be conducted
• Participate in project meetings and summarize results
• Keep track of developments in the field of protein design.

Eligibility

Eligible for employment as a postdoctoral researcher is someone who has obtained a doctoral degree, or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree, within the subject area of the employment and who has obtained it no more than three years prior to the date of the employment decision. If there are special reasons, the doctoral degree may have been obtained earlier.

Other requirements:

• Very good knowledge of English, both spoken and written.
• Ability to drive and independently develop the project
• Strong computational skills with extensive experience in programming with Python.
• Significant experience in developing methods for deep learning using computational frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, etc.
• Experience working with molecular issues within life sciences and applying AI in this field.
• Interest and commitment to work in a collaborative project

Assessment Criteria

This is a merit-based position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in the career, and the assessment of applicants will primarily be based on their scientific merits and potential as researchers.

Particular emphasis will be placed on scientific ability within the subject area.

When hiring a postdoctoral researcher, the following will form the basis for assessment:

• Good ability to develop and conduct high-quality research.
• Pedagogical ability.

Other merits:

• Experience in protein design is considered an asset
• The postdoctoral researcher may, if interested, contribute to experimental testing of designs. If of interest, some laboratory background is considered an asset.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive, and independence, as well as how the applicant, through their experience and competence, is assessed to complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department and contribute to its future development.

Conditions

The employment is limited to a maximum of 2 years and is full-time. The employment is limited according to the agreement, “Agreement on Fixed-Term Employment as a Postdoctoral Researcher,” between the labor market parties dated 2022-02-01 (The Swedish Agency for Government Employers, OFR, and Saco-S).

Application Instructions

The application must be written in English and include:

• Curriculum vitae including a publication list.
• A general description of previous research work and future research interests (max three pages).
• Contact information for at least two references.
• A copy of the doctoral degree certificate and any other certificates/grades you wish to invoke.

At the Faculty of Science, research and education are conducted in biology, astronomy, physics, geosciences, chemistry, mathematics, and environmental science. The activities are conducted at eight departments located within the northern university area. The faculty has about 1,500 students, 360 doctoral students, and 700 employees.

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