The IMBM is recognised as one of the leading research units at the UWC. The Institute focuses on recent advances in (meta)genomics and bioinformatics for the identification of genes or biosynthetic pathways and their heterologous expression to produce natural and novel high-value biochemicals.
The IMBM invites applications for a two-year Postdoctoral Fellowship in the project “Identification and biochemical characterisation of enzyme candidates for specific industry requirements”. The project aims to identify and characterise enzyme candidates that meets the specific production requirements of a highly competitive and awarding-winning local company.
Project Description:
The project will employ a two-prong approach i.e. (i) the in silico mining of candidate enzymes, synthesis of gene expression constructs and assessment of heterologously produced enzyme candidates; (ii) metagenomic library construction from a selected sample, library screening for specific enzyme activity and sequencing analysis. Characterisation of the selected enzyme candidates will involve (sub)cloning, purification, biochemical analyses and evaluation at laboratory-scale in production conditions.
Minimum Criteria:
Applicants must have completed a PhD degree and have a minimum of two years of experience in cloning, heterologous expression and genetic engineering. Experience in metagenomic-related technologies will be considered as an advantage. Applicants should have strong project management and trouble-shooting skills, be able to lead a project of this nature and work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Application Submission:
The candidate will be under the supervision of Prof. Marla Trindade. Applicants are to submit their CV and covering letter to Ms Robin Karelse (
[email protected]) by no later than 18 February 2022.
The application is open to South African citizens as well as international applicants.
