Analytical chemistry is the backbone of natural product research. We are seeking a motivated and experienced post-doctoral candidate with demonstrated expertise in hyphenated analytical techniques on marine (microbial) natural products.
The main task of the holder of this post will be LC-MS/MS-based metabolome mining/chemical profiling employing algorithm/bioinformatic approaches (MS/MS fragment similarity based molecular networking) and coupling them with other omics datasets (e.g., genomics, lipidomics, metallomics, peptidomics, metagenomics, etc). The successful candidate will develop and apply the latest LC-MS/MS tools in drug discovery and chemical ecology projects on mainly marine microorganisms and their small molecule natural products. The candidate will also perform spatial metabolomics using the in-house Desorption Electrospray Ionization-Imaging Mass Spectrometer (DESI-IMS). He/she will closely interact with other research groups from a broad range of scientific disciplines. The holder of the post will be involved in maintenance of the LC-MS equipment, establishment of new analytical methods and training/supervision of undergraduate/postgraduate students and technical staff.
What We Offer
GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel is a leading institute in marine research worldwide. The research unit Marine Natural Product Chemistry offers a vibrant, highly international, and research-driven environment with excellent research infrastructure and networks (see below), a collaborative work culture, access to international cruises and collaborations, a perfect incubator for a successful academic career. As a family-friendly employer, GEOMAR offers benefits such as support with childcare (holiday programs) and a discounted season ticket for local public transport.
Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art chemical facilities including in-house UPLC-QTOF-MS coupled with DESI Imaging Mass Spectrometry, HPLC-DAD-MS, HPLC-HRMS, GC-MS, automated extraction systems such as Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE) and Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE), FT-IR, polarimeter and related databases, as well as excellent microbiology/biotechnology facilities and over 70 running in vitro biological assays. Our in-house microbial culturing facilities span from small (1L) to large-scale (300L fermenter), as well as access to sequencing facilities. GEOMAR has full access to high-resolution (cryo-) NMR facilities at the Chemistry Department of Kiel University. We lead or participate multiple collaborative EU or national research projects.
Working language in the group is English.
Required Qualifications
- A diploma and a PhD in LC-MS/MS-based analytical natural product chemistry or a related field
- Demonstrated competence and hands-on skills in LC-MS/MS metabolome mining of natural products (by molecular networks)
- Proficiency in bioinformatics for linking different -omics datasets
- Proficiency in use of public and commercial databases (for dereplication), statistical analysis and big data management
- Demonstrated experience in writing first author-publications, excellent publication track record in scientific journals and conference presentations
- Fluency in spoken and written English with oral and written communication skills
Desirable Qualifications
Candidates with strong track records of accomplishment analytical chemistry/secondary metabolome mining on terrestrial organisms are encouraged to apply, provided they have the required hands-on skills and experience. Previous work with metallomics, genomics, biosynthetic gene cluster analysis or other omics is highly advantageous. Previous exposure to Imaging Mass Spectrometry (IMS) is highly desirable. Additional experience in GC-MS, purification (HPLC) and chemical characterization of diverse types of natural products by high field NMR, HRMS is highly welcome.
