Research Scientist in Molecular Tool Development

Passionate, motivated and creative researcher specialized in molecular tool development for bacterial genetic modification and engineering

We are looking for a researcher for our Strain Development Department, in the Bacterial Physiology unit, Discovery function of R&D at Chr. Hansen A/S in our headquarters in Hørsholm, Denmark.

With our ambitions of 8-10% organic growth we are expanding our R&D capacity and our Strain Development activities. Being a company based on science we strive to deliver cutting edge products that arise from insights into microbial physiology and biochemistry. To this end, we apply a systems biology approach and use molecular tools for hypothesis validation. Thus, development of molecular tools for industrial strains is required. Application of these tools is envisioned in research efforts aiming at understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the phenotypic traits of our strains, as for example bioactivity against spoilage organism in fermented foods.  Thus, we seek a researcher with a strong scientific background and a proven track record on molecular tool development for strain engineering, and particularly with good understanding of genome editing systems for Gram-positive bacteria. The scientist will report to the Manager of our Strain Development department.

The job
As a research scientist in the Strain Development department your main task will be develop state-of-the art molecular tools for genome editing of Gram-positive bacteria, and especially Lactic Acid Bacteria and Bacillus.

Other tasks include:

• You will develop a genome editing toolbox for industrial lactic Acid Bacteria
• You will develop microbial libraries and assist in planning screening set-ups for identification of key functionalities in proprietary strains
• You will plan, execute and manage relevant project tasks in your field of expertise 
• You will actively participate in idea maturation sessions
• You will establish and mediate collaborative efforts in the team, with stakeholders and potential external partners in your field of expertise
• You will be responsible for the documentation and communication of data, communicate and discuss results with the team, manager and stakeholders
• You will secure intellectual property rights

Your professional and personal profile
For this position we request a solid background molecular tool development, bacterial genome editing and genetic engineering of bacteria. We encourage self-driven candidates that are passionate about developing tools to unveil solve biological questions.
A PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Microbial Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent is mandatory.

In addition, you are/have

• Experience in the field of bacterial genetic engineering, molecular tool development, genome editing of Gram-positive bacteria.
• Documented scientific excellence in the form of high quality publication record
• Experience in doing research in multidisciplinary environments
• Talented, proactive and independent
• Innovative and enthusiastic towards new ideas
• Multitasking and team oriented
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English

About the department
The Bacterial Physiology unit aims at delivering top notch microbial leads to the Chr. Hansen value chain by applying a systems biology approach to generate the molecular and biochemical knowledge required to guide strain improvement strategies. The unit consists of three departments, Experimental Systems Biology, Computational Systems Biology and Strain Development and a total of 23 employees. The Strain Development department (7 members) develops improved microbial strains for commercial applications, phage-biology know-how and molecular tools for mechanistic studies.

As part of the Discovery organization in R&D we bridge academic research with new product development by improving our in-depth understanding of bacterial physiology to guide strain screening & improvement efforts.

We offer
We offer a permanent position and a stimulating, international workplace within a professional organization focused on linking solid scientific research to business opportunities. In addition, we offer a good team with dedicated colleagues and a comprehensive scientific network in modern research laboratories.

For more information and application
If you have any questions for the position, please feel free to contact Rute Neves, Director Bacterial Physiology (e-mail: dkruns@chr-hansen.com; phone: +4560431012).

Deadline for applications is November 11th, 2018.

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