Research consultant in Lipid Metabolites at Department of Biomedical Sciences

We are looking for a highly motivated and independent Research consultant/staff scientistto support our efforts in N-acyl taurine analysisto commence 1 June 2024

Our research

The Grevengoed group is unravelling the biological role of a novel class of amphiphilic lipids known as n-acyl-taurines (NATs) through the use of interdisciplinary techniques, including mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. So far, we have established that NATs are biliary lipids increased by fatty acid supplementation and have identified their hepatic synthase. We are currently studying how NATs are synthesized in extra-hepatic tissues, how common they are in the animal kingdom, how they are transported and how they are absorbed. To this end, our group collaborates with international and local basic scientists and clinicians to obtain rare samples (e.g. human liver biopsies, human bile, zoological samples) for the analysis of NATs. As an international group, we are seeking an interdisciplinary, international researcher who will fully integrate into our expanding diverse group. We strive for an inclusive environment that integrates differing scientific perspectives as we enthusiastically investigate this novel and exciting class of lipids.

Your job

Your main tasks would be designing and implementing metabolomics focused experiments to answer our group’s biological questions regarding NATs. The day-to-day tasks include sample preparation (including extraction of fluids (e.g. plasma, bile) and tissues (e.g. liver, muscle, etc.)), data generation using low and high resolution mass spectrometers coupled to ultra-high performance liquid chromatography systems and data analysis using open source metabolomics software. You must be comfortable and proven in developing new methods for the analysis of NATs in diverse sample matrices. You must also be comfortable in training and then delegating your designed methods to current and new members of the laboratory to take on their own projects. We strive to train, teach and mentor the next generation of scientists and expect you to serve in the teaching of more junior lab members about NAT analysis and general metabolomics.

Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic staff scientist with the following competencies and experience:

Essential experience and skills

• You have a PhD in a biological science (e.g. genetics, biochemistry, etc.)
• You have documented experience (10+ years) in quantitative and qualitative mass spectrometry based metabolomics with special interest in n-acyl taurines
• You are highly experienced in handling of diverse sample types (tissues and fluids from rodents, humans and unconventional biological models (e.g. bears, crustaceans, birds, large land mammals))
• You have an active interest in biological chemistry and metabolomics
• You have proven an ability to envision, plan and execute a research project 
• Good English skills, written and spoken

Desirable experience and skills

• Experience and knowledge in rodent handling and experiments
• Experience in chemical synthesis (e.g. stable isotope labelled standard synthesis) and click chemistry

Place of employment

The place of employment is at Department of Biomedical Sciences, Panum Institute University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include modern laboratories and low and high resolution mass spectrometers.

Terms of employment

The average weekly working hours are 37 hours per week.

The starting date is 1 June 2024 or after agreement.

Employment will be in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Salary level of special consultant with the possibility to negotiate a salary supplement based on prior experiences and qualifications. The employer will pay an additional 17.1 % to your pension fund.

Questions

For further information regarding the position, please contact Trisha Grevengoed, [email protected] .

Application

Your application should in English include:

• Letter of application addressing the requirements (max. one page).
• Curriculum Vitae
• A certified/signed copy of certificate(s) of education

Please submit your application by clicking on “Apply Now” below. Only online applications will be accepted.

Application deadline: 14 March 2024, 23.59 CET

We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

Interviews are expected to be held in the weeks following the application deadline.

The University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of personal background.

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.