The lab of Prof. Joleen Masschelein, based in the Department of Biology at KU Leuven and the VIB-KU Leuven Center of Microbiology, is home to a multidisciplinary team of ±25 researchers dedicated to elucidating and engineering the biosynthesis of microbial specialized metabolites. Research in the Masschelein lab spans the exciting interface between chemistry and biology, integrating microbiology, molecular genetics, genomics, enzymology, bioinformatics, structural biology, metabolomics and chemical synthesis.
The lab is situated in the brand-new Leuven Bioscience Center and hosts state-of-the-art synthetic biology and analytical chemistry facilities for high-throughput (i) detection, isolation and structural characterization of microbial metabolites; (ii) protein purification and in vitro biochemical assays; and (iii) the growth and genetic manipulation of various aerobic and anaerobic micro-organisms.
The lab is part of the VIB Life Sciences institute and is located at KU Leuven, one of the oldest and most prominent universities in Europe, consistently ranked within the top 50 universities Worldwide. The lab is situated in the beautiful park of the 15th century Arenberg castle in Heverlee, near the city centre of Leuven. Leuven is located 10 miles from Brussels, with frequent direct train connections to Brussels airport. It is a picturesque, historic university city with a young and vibrant atmosphere and a strong international allure.
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Responsibilities
- We are looking for a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join an interdisciplinary research project aimed at unraveling an intriguing mystery in microbial biochemistry: how do cable bacteria assemble the unique conductive structures that enable long-range electron transport over centimeter distances? Cable bacteria are multicellular organisms capable of channeling electric currents via highly conductive protein fibers embedded in the cell envelope. Recent discoveries have revealed that these extraordinary fibers contain a nickel-containing metal-organic framework that is entirely new to science. Understanding how living cells assemble such conductive molecules represents a major challenge at the interface of microbiology and future design of entirely new bio-based electronic materials
- The selected candidate will investigate the biosynthetic machinery responsible for the formation of these conductive structures. You will identify and experimentally characterize candidate biosynthetic enzymes using a combination of molecular biology, recombinant protein production and purification, in vitro biochemical assays and state-of-the-art mass spectrometry approaches. Together, these approaches will allow you to reconstruct the biosynthetic pathway and uncover the molecular mechanisms that underlie the assembly of this remarkable new form of biological electron transport.
- You will be based in Leuven, but will also collaborate closely with the lab of Prof. Filip Meysman at the University of Antwerp, a world-leading group in cable bacteria research. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a high-impact, ambitious project that aims to uncover how biology builds highly conductive molecules for long-range electron transport. You will work in a supportive, international and collaborative research environment with excellent opportunities for scientific development, technical training, networking, conference participation and publication in leading journals.
Profile
- PhD in microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemical biology or a closely related discipline
- A productive scientific track record, including first-author publications in international journals
- Strong background in microbial biochemistry, enzymology or microbial chemical biology
- Hands-on experience with recombinant protein production in E. coli and biochemical characterization
- Experience with designing, performing and interpreting in vitro enzyme assays
- Experience with mass spectrometry-based protein or metabolite analysis (LC-MS, Intact protein mass spectrometry, proteomics, metabolite profiling)
- Experience with molecular cloning and site-directed mutagenesis
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
- Experience with multidisciplinary collaborations involving microbiology, analytical chemistry and computational analysis is an asset
Offer
- A 2- or 3-year, fully-funded, full-time postdoctoral position in a stimulating international and multidisciplinary research environment at KU Leuven/VIB a highly-ranked research institute with competitive pay scale and benefits (health insurance, sports facilities,... )
- The ability to work on a scientifically exceptional and high-impact research topic
- A stimulating and supportive international research environment (with English as main language)
- Various training opportunities within KU Leuven and VIB to broaden your expertise and skills
- Access to state-of-the art research infrastructure
- Job is available immediately, starting date is negotiable
Interested?
Interested candidates should apply via the online application procedure. Your application should include:
- A motivation letter and detailed CV including a list of your scientific pulications
- Contact details of 2-3 references
Applications will be reviewed immediately, so please apply at the earliest opportunity. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. For further information and questions, please contact Prof. Joleen Masschelein ([email protected])
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
