[Closes 1 Mar 2019] CSIRO Synthetic Biology Future Science Fellowships scheme

The third round of the CSIRO Synthetic Biology Future Science Platform Future Science Fellowships scheme is open – please see details below. These Fellowships provide an opportunity for early-to-mid career researchers (academic rank A-C in the Australian system) to develop their careers in synthetic biology research through collaboration with their Australasian host university (or other eligible host organisation) and CSIRO, Australia’s peak scientific research organisation. Applications close 5pm Australian Eastern Standard Time, Friday 1st March 2019.

Further information and application instructions for the Fellowships are available at: https://research.csiro.au/synthetic-biology-fsp/work-with-us/synbio-fellowships

The 2019 priority Application Domains are Health & Medicine, and Maximising Impact (social sciences). Applications in other Application Domains will also be accepted. We also have a technical priority area: BioFoundry use (high throughput robotic engineering; Foundry facilities are available). Further details can be found in the Priority Areas (see section under ‘Projects’ in the Instructions to Applicants).

Fellowship Enquiries: SynBioFSP@csiro.au

Foundry Enquiries: SynBioFoundry@csiro.au

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2019 CSIRO Synthetic Biology Future Science Fellowships

CSIRO’s Synthetic Biology Future Science Platform (SynBio FSP) is pleased to announce the opening of the third round of CSIRO Synthetic Biology Future Science Fellowships.

The scheme aims to attract outstanding national and international early- to mid-career postdoctoral researchers (equivalent to Australian Academic Levels A and B, or in exceptional circumstances, Level C) to expand Australian research capacity in synthetic biology. A key element of the SynBio FSP is establishment of a collaborative community of practice extending across CSIRO and Australia more broadly, and linking into international efforts in the field. Research projects must demonstrate an ability to build Australian capacity in synthetic biology.

Fellowships will be hosted at a Host Organisation (usually an Australian University, but other Australian research organisations may also be eligible) and will be a partnership between the Fellow, CSIRO, and the Host Organisation. Fellows will be employed by the Host Organisation but will maintain a strong linkage to CSIRO through a partnering CSIRO Mentor(s) and various joint activities designed to support development of a synthetic biology community of practice across Australia. Fellows will have a Visiting Scientist appointment at CSIRO and may spend a portion of time physically located within a CSIRO research group if appropriate for the Fellowship project.

How to apply?

Further information and application instructions for the Fellowships are available at: https://research.csiro.au/synthetic-biology-fsp/work-with-us/synbio-fellowships

Applications must be submitted by 5pm Australian Eastern Standard Time, Friday 1st March 2019.

The SynBio FSP strongly supports women and other minorities in STEM disciplines. We welcome applications from such individuals and greatly value the diversity they bring to the SynBioFSP. We recognise that women are less likely to apply for engineering-related Fellowships and Fellowships in general, and would therefore like to encourage applications from women. Processes are in place to recognise and properly assess output relative to opportunity, and opportunities for flexible working arrangements and career interruptions are embedded in the Fellowship rules.

Further enquiries can be directed to: SynBioFSP@csiro.au

[Closes 24 Jan 2019] OpenPlant Programme Manager job

Apply here >>> https://www.jic.ac.uk/vacancies/openplant-programme-manager-osbourn-group/

Main Purpose of the Job

Applications are invited for the position of an OpenPlant Programme Manager to be based at the John Innes Centre in Norwich. This position is part of the £13 M OpenPlant Synthetic Biology Research Centre, a large collaborative project led jointly by the John Innes Centre and the University of Cambridge (http://www.openplant.org). The successful applicant will work closely with Professor Anne Osbourn (Director, OpenPlant, Norwich) and other scientists at the John Innes Centre and the Earlham Institute to co-ordinate, integrate, trouble-shoot, evaluate and report on the progress of the overall programme. A key part of the responsibilities of the post holder will be (with Professor Osbourn) to liaise with Professor Jim Haseloff (Director, OpenPlant, Cambridge) and his team to enable the successful delivery of the scientific and strategic goals of this large and complex project. The post holder will also be expected to take an active role in OpenPlant engagement activities.

Further details can be found at https://www.jic.ac.uk/scientists/anne-osbourn/.

Key Relationships

The successful applicant will be line-managed by Professor Anne Osbourn and will work closely with scientists within OpenPlant at the John Innes Centre and the Norwich-based Earlham Institute to co-ordinate and enable the successful delivery of the Norwich-based parts of the OpenPlant programme. A key part of the responsibilities of the post holder will be (with Professor Osbourn) to liaise closely with Professor Jim Haseloff and his team to co-ordinate, integrate, trouble-shoot, evaluate and report on the progress of the overall programme. The post holder will also be expected to take an active role in OpenPlant engagement activities.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day running of the OpenPlant Lab (Norwich) - co-ordinate, integrate, trouble-shoot, evaluate and assist with reporting on the progress of the overall programme

• Liaise closely with Professor Jim Haseloff, the Cambridge-based OpenPlant Project Manager, and scientists in the OpenPlant Lab (Cambridge) to ensure effective integration of the two-site Programme and to maximise opportunities for synergy

• Organise meetings, workshops, training courses, engagement activities and other events on behalf of OpenPlant

• Undertake other science engagement/social science activities relevant to OpenPlant

• As agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the role

[Closes 22 Jan 2019] Tenure-track assistant professor position in Plant Genome Engineering

The department of Genetics Development and Cell Biology at Iowa State University (ISU) is inviting applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position in Plant Genome Engineering. They’re looking for a plant biologist who uses and/or develops genome editing technologies in their research.

Apply here >>> https://www.iastatejobs.com/postings/37758

GDCB seeks to hire a plant biologist who addresses fundamental or applied questions in the mechanisms of plant function and/or development at the cellular and molecular level using genome engineering such as CRISPR/Cas gene editing. Scientists developing resources that potentially reshape specific plant characteristics for the benefit of the environment and the human condition are strongly encouraged to apply.

Areas of interest will address or integrate Signature Themes at ISU in Biological Systems, Datarich Environments, and Environmental Sustainability, including but not limited to: molecular and cellular processes integral to plant health or disease, genome dynamics, phenomics, plant development, epigenetics, genetic and metabolic regulatory networks, and plant responses to environmental signals and stresses. Interdisciplinary or collaborative research is encouraged.

Responsibilities include building a nationally recognized research program that competes successfully for extramural funding, advancing the discipline through high-quality publications, mentoring students, and effective teaching of undergraduate and graduate courses. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent communication and leadership skills and will share the university’s commitment to an inclusive environment that supports diversity.

GDCB and ISU provide an interactive, collegial environment of world-class scientists studying biological questions of fundamental importance, with particular strengths in plant sciences. Our faculty use experimental and computational approaches in an array of organisms, and participate in interdisciplinary graduate training programs in Plant Biology, Genetics and Genomics, Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, and an NSF Research Traineeship in Predictive Plant Phenomics.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in life sciences or related

• Published record of high-quality research

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability or clear potential to secure extramural funding

• Evidence of ability to develop a research program with potential for national distinction

• Research plan that enhances existing strengths at ISU

• Engagement in interdisciplinary or collaborative research

• Postdoctoral research experience

• Demonstrated ability or potential to excel in scholarly teaching

• Evidence of commitment to an inclusive climate that supports diversity and enableshonest and respectful exchange of ideas

Please visit https://www.iastatejobs.com/postings/37758 to view the entire vacancy and apply electronically. For full consideration, submit the application by January 22, 2018.

[Closes 6 Jan 2019] Post-doctoral researcher position in the Osbourn Group at John Innes Centre

Closing Date: 6 Jan 2019

>>> Apply here <<<

Grade SC6 Starting Salary: £31,250 - £35,400

Expected/Ideal Start Date: 01 Feb 2019

Duration: 17 Months

Main Purpose of the Job

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Scientist with expertise in natural product chemistry. The post involves extraction, analysis, purification and structural determination of medicinally important complex triterpene glycosides . The successful candidate will work with other researchers within the Osbourn lab as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Further details of this project and the laboratory can be found at https://www.jic.ac.uk/scientists/anne-osbourn/.

Key Relationships

The successful applicant will be line-managed by Professor Anne Osbourn. The position is one of four postdoctoral positions funded by a Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) Super Follow-on Fund award for translational research. The successful applicant will work closely with this team and with John Innes Centre Metabolite Services.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Extraction, analysis, purification and strutcural determination of complex triterpenes (saponins)

• Prepare results, reports and manuscripts for publication in leading scientific journals and other relevant media

• Disseminate research findings though presentations to various audiences at internal, national and international meetings

• Collaborate with colleagues within the Institute in the development of original and world-class research, including contributing to research proposals and grant applications

• Liaise with industry and other external stakeholders

• Ensure research and record keeping is carried out in accordance with good practice, Scientific Integrity and in compliance with local policies and any legal requirements

• Contribute to the smooth running of the group, including the effective use of resources, supervision of visitors to the laboratory and assisting with training others, encouraging scientific excellence

• Continually strive for excellence, seeking out and acting on feedback and relevant learning and development opportunities

As agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the role

[Closes 15 Jan 2019] Postdoctoral researcher post in bioinformatics and computational protein design

Job number: ACAD103712

Division/School: School of Chemistry

Contract type: Open Ended

Working pattern: Full time

Salary: £33,199 - £42,036 per annum

Closing date for applications: 15-Jan-2019

>>> Apply here <<<

A 2-year, BBSRC/EPSRC-funded, postdoctoral position is available to develop bioinformatics and computational tools for protein analysis and design. The post is in the protein design laboratory of Prof Dek Woolfson (Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bristol; https://woolfsonlab.wordpress.com/).

The post has two aspects: The first project involves the development of computational tools (bioinformatics and virtual reality (VR)) to facilitate in silico protein design. This is in collaboration with Dr Dave Glowacki (Chemistry and Computer Science, Bristol). Protein designs will be tested experimentally in the Woolfson lab. The second project involves the construction of a database for collating and interrogating atomic structures of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). This is in collaboration with Prof Andy Wilson (Chemistry, Leeds). This work will underpin experimental studies across the POPPI consortium of academic and industrial researchers (https://poppi.website/).

The protein-design work builds on the Woolfson group’s expertise in computational and experimental protein design. See: Thomson et al. (2014) Science 346, 485-488, DOI:10.1126/science.1257452; and Wood et al. (2017) Bioinformatics 33, 3043–3050, DOI:10.1093/bioinformatics/btx352. The aim is to combine this with expertise in VR and machine learning in the Glowacki group to create accessible, user-friendly tools for protein design. See: O’Connor et al. (2018) Science Advances 4, DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aat2731.

The work on protein-protein interactions will contribute to an on-going computational and experimental effort to understand PPIs better. This understanding will be exploited in the design of peptide and small-molecule inhibitors of PPIs important to fundamental cellular processes and implicated in disease. See: Fletcher et al. (2018) Chem Sci 9, 7656-7665, DOI:10.1039/C8SC02643B. The aim is to generate a searchable database of PPIs of use to informaticians and experimentalists to interrogate and exploit PPIs.

The position is best suited to a talented and ambitious researcher with an interest in applying bioinformatics and computational biochemistry to protein science. Essential skills for this post include: an ability to program fluently in one or more computer languages, and ideally in Python; and experience with applications of bioinformatics, databases, or computer science in biochemistry or chemistry, and ideally in protein science. Desirable skills include: experience with computational protein design, databases for protein-structure analysis, molecular modelling in virtual reality environments, and in machine learning methods applied to protein science.

For informal enquiries, please contact: d.n.woolfson@bristol.ac.uk

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 15th January 2019.

We appreciate and value difference, seeking to attract, develop and retain a diverse mix of talented people that will contribute to the overall success of Bristol and help maintain our position as one of the world’s leading universities.

[Closes 14 Feb 2019] Four senior/lectureship posts available in Biological Sciences at Bristol University

Job number: ACAD103726

Division/School: School of Biological Sciences

Contract type: Open Ended

Working pattern: Full time

Salary: £43,267 - £51,630 per annum

Closing date for applications: 14-Feb-2019

>>> Apply here <<<

The School of Biological Sciences seeks four new academics at lecturer or senior lecturer level. Successful applicants will be research leaders with proven international track records commensurate with experience. They will drive influential research programmes that span the long-standing research strengths of the School: behavioural ecology and sensory biology, ecology and environmental change, evolutionary biology and plant and agricultural science.

Successful applicants will have strong interdisciplinary research portfolios and evidence of academic leadership along with strong commitment and aptitude for teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate level and roles across the spectrum of academic life.

A good fit to existing University Research Institutes and the Faculty of Life Sciences would also be an advantage.

For informal enquiries please contact Prof Claire Grierson (headofschool-biology@bristol.ac.uk).

The closing date for applications is 11:59pm on Thursday 14th February 2019. It is anticipated that interviews will be held during week commencing 1st April 2019.

[Close 18 Jan 2019] Two postdoc positions on AI and SynBio in Edinburgh Genome Foundry

The Edinburgh Genome foundry are looking for two post-doctoral researchers to work with the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh.

Research Associate in Mammalian Synthetic Biology

Closing Date: 18-Jan-2019

>>> Apply here <<<

Vacancy Ref: #046305

Contact Person: Dr Filippo Menolascina (Filippo.Menolascina@ed.ac.uk)

A 3 year, fixed term postdoctoral appointment is available within the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh to work on the automatic (re)design of synthetic promoters, primarily for mammalian cells, focusing on the control Chimeric Antigen Receptors expression.

As part of this project, the successful candidate will develop a microfluidics-based platform to perform high-throughput cell screening and will liaise with the Edinburgh Genome Foundry to build, and automatically model, large libraries of synthetic inducible promoters.

They will combine machine learning and computational optimisation to predict promoter strength, leakiness and automatically optimise promoter design to meet set specifications (e.g. maximise fold induction, minimise response time). They will also build a promoter to maximise sensitivity/specificity of transgene expression.

The ideal candidate should have a PhD with a background in Engineering or Computer Science and previous experience with techniques/protocols in Cell Biology and Microscopy. Experience with microfluidic device fabrication is desirable.

Research Associate in Microbial Synthetic Biology

Closing Date: 18-Jan-2019

>>> Apply here <<<

Vacancy Ref: #046306

Contact Person: Dr Filippo Menolascina (Filippo.Menolascina@ed.ac.uk)

A 2 year, fixed term postdoctoral appointment is available within the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh to work on the automatic engineering of synthetic microbial promoters.

As part of this project, the successful candidate will develop a microfluidics-based platform to perform high-throughput cell screening and will liaise with the Edinburgh Genome Foundry to build, and automatically model, large libraries of synthetic inducible promoters.

They will combine machine learning and computational optimisation to predict promoter strength, leakiness and automatically optimise promoter design to meet set specifications (e.g. maximise fold induction, minimise response time). They will also build a promoter to maximise sensitivity/specificity of transgene expression.

The ideal candidate should have a PhD with a background in Engineering or Computer Science and previous experience with techniques/protocols in Cell Biology and Microscopy. Experience with microfluidic device fabrication is desirable.

[Closes 14 September 2018] Technologist in DNA packaging and delivery in Edinburgh

This position is within Prof Alistair Elfick lab, School of Engineering and UK Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology (www.synbio.ed.ac.uk) 

The Role:

An important underpinning technology for synthetic biology is the synthesis of DNA. Technology has now advanced to the point where it is possible to affordably construct very large constructs up to chromosome scale. An emergent bottleneck is the delivery of this into the cell. The Technologist will be actively involved in contributing to the standard development programme of the UK Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology (UK-CMSB), in collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory. They will be primarily responsible for delivering technologies to achieve the packaging and non-viral delivery of large DNA constructs into mammalian cells, with their reduction to practise as standard protocols. Their secondary role is the support of collaboration with academic and research staff and students of the UK-CMSB. The post holder will ensure that the development of UK-CMSB technology standards supports and keeps pace with the research requirements, liaising with industry, collaborators and users, advising and training staff and students.

Fixed term for 2 years

Grade 7

Closing date Sept 14th 2018

Vacancy reference www.vacancies.ed.ac.uk  search for #044849

Contact Alistair.elfick@ed.ac.uk for further information

[Closes 30 May 2018] Co-ordinator for Synthetic Biology Centre

We're looking to hire a Cambridge-based coordinator for the OpenPlant SynBio Research Centre and the Cambridge SynBio Strategic Research Initiative. Application deadline is 30 May 2018.

Full details of the post can be found at http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/17351/

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The role-holder would work 50% to support the OpenPlant Synthetic Biology Research Centre and 50% with the Synthetic Biology Strategic Research Initiative (SynBio SRI). The purpose of the role is to help develop and implement a strategy that will enable both initiatives to become known leaders in the field and sustainable in the longer term.

OpenPlant (http://openplant.org) is a consortium funded by BBSRC and EPSRC comprising 20 labs spanning the University of Cambridge, John Innes Centre and the Earlham Institute (Norwich). The work of the Research Centre is intended to promote novel research on tools and applied traits for plant synthetic biology, open sharing of foundational technologies, and responsible innovation. The role-holder will work with the OpenPlant Directors and Management Group, including the OpenPlant Project Manager based in Norwich, to co-ordinate a variety of activities within the Research Centre.

The SynBio SRI (http://synbio.cam.ac.uk) aims to catalyse interdisciplinary exchange between engineering, physics, biology and social sciences to advance Synthetic Biology at the University of Cambridge. The role-holder will work with the SRI Co-Chairs and Steering Committee to develop, plan and deliver the SRI's vision and strategy. They will facilitate efforts to promote development of open technologies, build shared resources, and provide a hub for networking and discussion.

Responsibilities will also include co-ordinating seed funding competitions such as the Biomaker Challenge and OpenPlant Fund; organising formal and informal scientific meetings and forums; developing and managing relationships with stakeholders within and external to the University; seeking small and large-scale funding for future activities. The role-holder is additionally responsible for ensuring that synthetic biology activities in Cambridge are actively communicated and promoted, and is supported by the part-time SynBio SRI Events and Communication Co-ordinator.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in a relevant field and knowledge of Synthetic Biology research, policy and practice. They will have the ability to foster relationships with and between academics at all levels in an interdisciplinary context, and build partnerships with companies, funders and policy makers. A successful track record in attracting research funding would be advantageous. Excellent organisational and communications skills are essential, together with proven problem-solving skills and initiative.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 September 2019 in the first instance.

[Close 22 Apr 2018] Two Sr / Research Assocaite positions in Protein Design

Two positions are available in the laboratory of Professor Dek Woolfson, University of Bristol

For more information on the Woolfson group see: http://www.chm.bris.ac.uk/org/woolfson/index.html

For informal enquiries please contact: d.n.woolfson@bristol.ac.uk

Senior Research Associate / Research Associate in Protein Design for Biotechnology

http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BIT158/senior-research-associate-research-associate-in-protein-design-for-biotechnology/

A position for a postdoctoral research associate is available to work on a protein design in biotechnology project in the laboratory of Professor Dek Woolfson.  The group is internationally leading in the development of protein design for applications in chemical and synthetic biology.  The successful applicants will join a vibrant research team that combines bioinformatics and computational design, peptide and protein chemistry, biophysics and structural biology, and cell biology.  Expertise in peptide chemistry and biophysical methods would be a distinct advantage for this particular post, and applicants from these areas are particularly encouraged to apply.  However, we are keen to receive applications from ambitious and energetic individuals across the chemical and biochemical sciences or bioengineering with an interest in advancing protein design and its applications generally.

This post in protein design for biotechnology is for one year, and it is funded by a European Research Council Proof-of-Concept grant.  The project will explore the use of a-helical barrels recently discovered and developed in the Woolfson lab (Thomson et al. (2014) Science 346:485-488) in the area of biosensing. Researchers with a background in peptide chemistry, surface chemistry and/or fluorescence spectroscopy/microscopy are strongly encouraged to apply.  An active interest in driving the translation of this basic research into biotechnology applications of societal benefit would be an advantage.

Senior Research Associate / Research Associate in Protein Design

http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/BIP002/senior-research-associate-research-associate-in-protein-design

A position for a postdoctoral research associate is available to work on protein design in the laboratory of Professor Dek Woolfson.  The group is internationally leading in the development of protein design for applications in chemical and synthetic biology.  The successful applicant will join a vibrant research team that combines bioinformatics and computational design, peptide and protein chemistry, biophysics and structural biology, and cell biology.  Expertise in computational biochemistry and/or structural biology would be a distinct advantage for this post, and applicants from these areas are particularly encouraged to apply.  However, we are keen to receive applications from ambitious and energetic individuals across the chemical and biochemical sciences or bioengineering with an interest in advancing protein design and its applications generally.

The post is available for an initial two-year period and is extendable to a further two years upon a successful start to the project.  This is funded by a grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Research Council of the UK.  The post-holder would be joined in year 2 by an expert in machine learning and virtual reality (VR) working in the laboratory of Dr David Glowacki (Chemistry, Bristol).  Together, these two post-doctoral research associates will develop VR methods to aid and advance the computational design of completely new proteins building on research programmes across the two labs (Thomson et al. (2014) Science 346:485-488; Wood et al. (2017) Bioinformatics 33:3043-3050; https://arxiv.org/pdf/1801.02884.pdf).  There will also be considerable opportunity to work with the international experimental and computational protein design and engineering communities.

Opportunity to join an exciting new start-up to develop insect tracking and quantification device via IoT

An exciting opportunity is available to work with a young up-and-coming start-up company.  As part of their research development, they are interested in creating an IoT demo device for insect tracking and quantification and could use some engineering help.

They are looking to make a device that can:

1. Use vision tech to classify broad categories of insects
2. Combine cloud-based hyper-localized data (weather conditions, time, etc.) with pollinator data. 
3. Develop an IoT edge device
4. Design a chemical release mechanism controlled electronically

The position is temporary to begin with, with a view to develop a permanent position in the future if the fit is right. The position would be based in London, but the company are open to applicants who aren't based in London, but are happy to travel on occasion.

ABOUT POM:

Insect pollinators provide a vital ecosystem service for crop pollination in wild plants, and over 75% of crops worldwide benefit from insect pollination through increased yields at harvest. The number of wild pollinators, especially bees is steadily declining. This documented decline poses a significant risk to the production of many crops and threatens food security.

POM encourages flies to be more efficient pollinators, in scenarios where bees are no longer as viable. Flies are already adept pollinators, being the main pollinators in urban environments, and in total, accounting for over 30% of all pollination.

POM provides horticultural growers with information on pollinators and environmental conditions and uses chemical volatiles to manage pollinating fly species, thereby increasing crop productivity, and ensuring sustainable food harvests for the future.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

We are looking to find an experienced Engineer who is interested in working with a young and exciting start-up that has recently taken on investment to develop an insect tracking IoT device.

The individual should have experience with working on Raspberry Pi, Cloud computing and IoT data connectivity. The position will report weekly developments to the POM team in our London office, and reports to the Senior Engineer remotely throughout the week.

This position is a two month contract with the potential to continue with the company after
the achievement of key milestones. Project Salary: £2,300+ per month

Click here to download the job description.

Interested? Contact hello@flypollination.com

www.flypollination.com

[Closes 26 Apr 2018] Bioinformatician - Single Cell Analysis at Earlham Institute

The Core Bioinformatics Group at the Earlham Institute (EI, Norwich, UK) is looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Bioinformatician to support developments in single cell genomics at the institute. Apply here: http://www.earlham.ac.uk/bioinformatician-single-cell-analysis

The role:

This is a collaborative project with the successful candidate joining the group of Dr. David Swarbreck and working closely with wet and dry lab scientists in the groups of Dr. Iain Macaulay and Dr. Wilfried Haerty. The post-holder will establish and implement pipelines and processes for the analysis of single genome, epigenome and transcriptome data from a wide variety of biological systems. Delivering single cell data analysis in conjunction with faculty groups, the genomic pipelines team and external collaborators.

[Closes 26 Apr 2018] Bioinformatician - Genomics Pipelines at Earlham Institute

This position is within the Core Bioinformatics group working in collaboration with Ksenia Krasileva (University of California, Berkeley). Apply here: http://www.earlham.ac.uk/bioinformatician-genomics-pipelines

The role:

This group member will be working with the latest wheat genomic data and building a toolbox for functional analyses. Specifically, the candidate will be involved in developing software tools to help understand how new variation in NLR immune receptors is generated, updating variant calling pipelines to examine natural and induced variation in complex wheat genomes and integrating this information to enable functional characterization of wheat genes. The candidate will work independently and with members of the Swarbreck (EI) and Krasileva (UC Berkeley) Groups to develop computational tools and pipelines to analyse large datasets and interpret them in a variety of biological contexts.

[Closes 19 Apr 2018] Genomics Pipelines Senior Research Assistant (Automation) at Earlham Institute

Applications are invited for Senior Research Assistant to join the Genomics Pipelines Group at the Earlham Institute. Apply at http://www.earlham.ac.uk/genomics-pipelines-senior-research-assistant-automation

The role:

The SRA will support the automation of high-throughput workflows for the Genomics Pipelines group and the DNA Foundry at the Earlham Institute. The SRA will play a key role in automating, troubleshooting and streamlining both current and future pipelines in a rapidly changing and technology-led environment. The SRA will also assist production teams with the preparation of next-generation sequencing libraries and the building and testing of engineered organisms as required by customers’ and collaborators’ projects.

The SRA will work closely with other laboratory staff in Genomics Pipelines and DNA Foundry to plan, execute and deliver scheduled high throughput and/or novel techniques. The SRA will transition complex, and cutting-edge laboratory processes onto EI’s installed base of liquid handling robotics platforms, as well as ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of laboratory automation, and deliver training to other RAs using automated protocols for deployment into production.

The SRA will ensure efficient, effective and safe operations of the automation they are responsible for. They will train Research Assistants on using automated protocols until they are handed over for production.

The SRA’s work will support Earlham’s strategic science programmes and the National Capability in Genomics and Single Cell Analysis, and DNA foundry.

[Closing March 6 - April 10] Several lectureship opportunities at Edinburgh University

Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in Synthetic Biology (vacancy ref: 042732)

We seek an excellent scientist and inspiring teacher who uses synthetic biology methods in research programmes such as genome engineering, biotechnology, metabolic engineering, genetic circuit design and engineering (both in vivo and cell free), bio-sensing, multi-cellularity and tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, novel vaccine development or addresses key questions in molecular or cell biology. The Edinburgh Genome Foundry’s facilities for automated DNA assembly can support large-scale synthetic biology and synthetic genomics research and we would be particularly enthusiastic about research programmes that took advantage of these capabilities.

Closing date – March 22nd

Contact – Prof Susan Rosser (Susan.Rosser@ed.ac.uk)

Lecturer in Biological Mass Spectrometry (vacancy ref: 042692)

We seek an excellent scientist and inspiring teacher who applies mass spectrometry (MS) in innovative ways to tackle major challenges in biology. We are looking for researcher who is addressing key questions in areas such as cell biology, structural biology, immunology, microbiology, biotechnology or systems biology, by exploiting the unique sensitivity, accuracy and resolving power of modern and emerging MS techniques.

Closing date – April 5th 2018

Contact – Prof Paul Barlow (Paul.Barlow@ed.ac.uk)

Lecturer in Computational Biology (vacancy ref: 042673)

We seek an excellent scientist and inspiring teacher who uses and develops computational and modelling techniques to address key questions in biology. We welcome applications from researchers in all areas of computational biology, and we are particularly looking for those working in the following fields: metabolism, such as the application of flux balance analysis and the analysis and interpretation of data from metabolomics and fluxomics experiments; multi-scale modelling of biological systems, including formal modelling techniques and stochastic modelling; and data science approaches to biological research, including the analysis of data from next generation sequencing.

Closing Date - 13th March 2018

Contact – Prof Peter Swain or Prof Guido Sanguinetti (Peter.swain@ed.ac.uk or gsanguin@inf.ed.ac.uk)

Lecturer in Stem cell Biology (vacancy ref 042667)

We seek an excellent scientist and inspiring teacher who addresses key questions in stem cell biology or developmental biology that are directly relevant to stem cell or regenerative biology. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who employ single cell or synthetic approaches

Closing Date – April 10th

Contact – Prof Donal O’Carroll Donal.ocarroll@ed.ac.uk

Lecturer in Molecular Crop Science (vacancy ref: 042668)

We seek a creative scientist and inspiring teacher who applies molecular approaches to address important fundamental and translational questions in plant biology that are relevant to crop improvement and food security.

Closing Date – March 15th

Contact – Prof Andrew Hudson (Andrew.hudson@ed.ac.uk)

Lectureship in Biochemistry (vacancy ref 042671)

This four-year lectureship position offers an outstanding opportunity to develop an independent teaching and research programme. We seek an excellent scientist and inspiring teacher to join a group of successful scientists with teaching and research interests across RNA and cell biology, synthetic biology, systems biology, biochemistry and biotechnology. At Edinburgh we emphasise cross-disciplinary thinking in a collaborative and well-supported environment. You will benefit from this to build your own portfolio of research and scholarship. You will make an important contribution to the development and delivery of high-quality and inspirational undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, including the opportunity to develop eLearning and on-line education initiatives. You will have a PhD in a relevant area of biology or chemistry and a published record of research, along with a successful track record of developing innovative and engaging teaching.

Closing Date – March 6

Contact – Prof Paul Barlow (paul.barlow@ed.ac.uk)

For all roles, please apply online at vacancies.ed.ac.uk

[Closes 22 Mar 2018] Vacancy for Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in Synthetic Biology at University of Edinburgh

Vacancy: Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in Synthetic Biology

We seek an excellent scientist and inspiring teacher who uses synthetic biology methods in research programmes such as genome engineering, biotechnology, metabolic engineering, genetic circuit design and engineering (both in vivo and cell free), bio-sensing, multi-cellularity and tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, novel vaccine development or addresses key questions in molecular or cell biology. The Edinburgh Genome Foundry’s facilities for automated DNA assembly can support large-scale synthetic biology and synthetic genomics research and we would be particularly enthusiastic about research programmes that took advantage of these capabilities.

You will have the ability, enthusiasm and breadth of vision required to be a future leader in this rapidly moving field. You will pursue an independent research programme, working collaboratively and leading a team. You must have an established track record of relevant publications and the potential to win future investment in research, and will be expected to engage with both commercial and public research users and funders. You will be enthusiastic about teaching and student-centred learning for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

The University of Edinburgh is a vibrant, research-driven community offering opportunities to work with internationally leading academics whose visions are shaping tomorrow’s world. The School of Biological Sciences is one of the UK’s largest and most highly rated life sciences departments, providing an innovative environment for research and teaching with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research. SynthSys, the Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, is one of the largest groupings of systems and synthetic biologists in the UK with expertise ranging from microbes to mammalian cells working on applications in biotechnology and medicine as well as contributing to foundational and fundamental research. SynthSys is highly multidisciplinary with members from the schools of engineering, informatics, chemistry, physics, social sciences, medicine as well as biological sciences. You will join a team of group leaders working at the interface between molecular cell biology and quantitative science, with strong links in biotechnology.

Informal enquiries: Prof Susan Rosser susan.rosser@ed.ac.uk

This posts are full time and open ended.

Salary: UE08 £39,992 - £47,722 per annum / UE09: £50,618 - £56,950 per annum

Closing Date: Thursday 22nd March 2018 at 5pm (GMT)

To apply: www.vacancies.ed.ac.uk search for #042732

[Closes 12 Mar 2018] OpenPlant and SynBio SRI seek new Coordinator - apply now!

The University of Cambridge is seeking a Co-ordinator for two Synthetic Biology research initiatives. The role-holder would work 50% to support the OpenPlant Synthetic Biology Research Centre and 50% with the Synthetic Biology Strategic Research Initiative (SynBio SRI).

We are seeking a Co-ordinator for two Synthetic Biology research initiatives at the University of Cambridge. The role-holder would work 50% to support the OpenPlant Synthetic Biology Research Centre and 50% with the Synthetic Biology Strategic Research Initiative (SynBio SRI). The purpose of the role is to help develop and implement a strategy that will enable both initiatives to become known leaders in the field and sustainable in the longer term.

OpenPlant (http://openplant.org) is a consortium funded by BBSRC and EPSRC comprising 20 labs spanning the University of Cambridge, John Innes Centre and the Earlham Institute (Norwich). The work of the Research Centre is intended to promote novel research on tools and applied traits for plant synthetic biology, open sharing of foundational technologies, and responsible innovation. The role-holder will work with the OpenPlant Directors and Management Group, including the OpenPlant Project Manager based in Norwich, to co-ordinate a variety of activities within the Research Centre.

The SynBio SRI (http://synbio.cam.ac.uk) aims to catalyse interdisciplinary exchange between engineering, physics, biology and social sciences to advance Synthetic Biology at the University of Cambridge. The role-holder will work with the SRI Co-Chairs and Steering Committee to develop, plan and deliver the SRI's vision and strategy. They will facilitate efforts to promote development of open technologies, build shared resources, and provide a hub for networking and discussion.

Responsibilities will also include co-ordinating seed funding competitions such as the Biomaker Challenge and OpenPlant Fund; organising formal and informal scientific meetings and forums; developing and managing relationships with stakeholders within and external to the University; seeking small and large-scale funding for future activities. The role-holder is additionally responsible for ensuring that synthetic biology activities in Cambridge are actively communicated and promoted, and is supported by the part-time SynBio SRI Events and Communication Co-ordinator.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in a relevant field and knowledge of Synthetic Biology research, policy and practice. They will have the ability to foster relationships with and between academics at all levels in an interdisciplinary context, and build partnerships with companies, funders and policy makers. A successful track record in attracting research funding would be advantageous. Excellent organisational and communications skills are essential, together with proven problem-solving skills and initiative.

 For more information and to apply >>

[Closes 20 Feb 2018] Synthetic Biology Postdoc at Earlham Institute

OpenPlant PI Dr Nicola Patron is looking for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to work on a European Research Area (ERA) CoBioTech collaborative project based in the Patron Lab at the Earlham Institute. The project will use will use synthetic biology, comparative transcriptomics, metabolic engineering and genome editing/engineering techniques to develop plants and fungi as low-cost, sustainable production platforms for biosynthesis of insect pheromones..

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Closing date 20th February 2018

[Closes 2 Jan 2018] Postdoc in Synthetic Biology at Newcastle University

Newcastle University are seeking a highly motivated experimental synthetic biology researcher to join Dr Angel Goñi-Moreno’s team at the Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex BioSystems (ICOS) group and the Centre for Synthetic Biology and the Bioeconomy of Newcastle University. You will work on the project “SynBio3D: Establishing the engineering fundamentals of three-dimensional synthetic biology”.

This project seeks to integrate spatial constraints such as distances and molecular crowding into the design and construction of gene regulatory circuits. Each gene sequence and each protein may need a specific physical address in the spatial frame of a cell for optimal performance (see http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acssynbio.6b00397 ), a fundamental question to be addressed by the project. This will bring spatial resolution to synthetic biology. Single molecules and DNA components will be tracked inside living cells. This project offers a fantastic playground for a researcher in synthetic biology to conduct highly novel research.

You will have a PhD awarded, or be close to obtaining one, with a significant molecular biology, genetic engineering or related component. You will have skills in the construction and validation of synthetic genetic circuits in bacterial cells. You will have knowledge in genome editing techniques. You will have experience in using fluorescence microscopy and, ideally, the visualization of gene expression constituents in individual cells. Experience in super-resolution microscopy is not essential, but will be positively considered. You will possess strong interests in the application of single-molecule tracking to synthetic biology problems.

You will need to be able to work independently as well as part of a team. Good communication skills are essential – our team includes computer scientists, engineers, biochemists, physicists and molecular biologists. Working under the supervision of senior colleagues, you will develop and initiate new collaborations both internally and externally. You will need to write up research results as well as to present our developments in national and international conferences and meetings. You will contribute to identify potential areas of research within the project and develop leadership skills.

The post is available fixed term for 24 months with start date as soon as possible.
Interviews will take place in January 2018, exact date to be confirmed upon invitation.

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[Deadline 15 Dec 2017] Faculty Openings at Northwestern Center for Synthetic Biology

The Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in the Center for Synthetic Biology

Applicants should have a PhD and postdoctoral experience in a field related to synthetic biology and should have research plans that apply synthetic biological approaches to biomedical goals. Ideal candidates should also demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills, as well as an ability to contribute actively to a rapidly growing Center.

Northwestern University has recently started the Center for Synthetic Biology as a university-wide initiative to formalize and grow Synthetic Biology as a research theme. Northwestern University offers superb start-up packages with a collegial and collaborative scientific environment that is rich with core facilities, robust cross- disciplinary graduate training programs, and diverse expertise.

Candidates should have a Ph.D. and/or a M.D. degree and postdoctoral experience. Salary is commensurate with experience and accomplishment.

Deadline: review of received applications will start December 15, 2017, and will continue until the position is filled. 

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