Postdoc – Functionalized Nanomaterials loaded CRISPR for Killing Targeted Pathogenic Bacteria at DTU Department of Health Technology
DTU Health Tech is seeking a post-doctoral research scientist to study Functionalized Nanomaterials loaded CRISPR for killing targeted pathogenic bacteria.
We strive at developing a smart nanomaterial delivery vector with multiple functions which can i) target surface receptor of specific bacteria; ii) load CRISPR-Cas cargos; and iii) cross the envelope structures of bacterial cells. We will use different nanomaterials with different physico-chemical properties as the intra-cellular delivery vectors and use microcontainer/micromotors as the extra-cellular delivery carriers for delivery CRISPR in target tissues. The research will boost the application of nanotechnology and CRISPR gene-editing system towards bacterial cells in the future.
This project will expand research activities in drug delivery and nanofabrication, which is the ongoing efforts at the IDUN section at DTU Department of Health Technology. IDUN is a highly cross-disciplinary research section with over 40 members, that focuses on development of micro and nanotechnology based sensors, detection systems and drug delivery devices. This position is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF, DK).
Responsibilities and tasks
CRISPR-Cas Cargos can be easily repurposed to kill specific bacteria, as they carry RNA-guided nucleases able to irreversibly cleave their target DNA. Previous studies have suggested their possible use as antimicrobial agents, but lack of effective delivery systems has prevented their application.
Nanotechnology has offered many promising solutions concerning delivery of drugs to specific relevant environments in the human body. Different nanaomaterials with different chemistry can be identified as carriers of targeted therapeutic drugs, which is promising for optimizing their simplicity, reproducibility, low immunogenicity, strong biocompatibility, and stability when compared with some other delivery techniques.
Your overall focus will be to strengthen our efforts to develop a smart nanomaterial delivery vector with multiple functions, which can deliver CRISPR-Cas Cargos into target bacteria for killing only one specific type of bacteria without damaging the homeostasis of the microbiome. You will work and collaborate closely with nearby colleagues and with academic partners in Denmark.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate has a background in nanocarriers for biomolecule delivery (e.g., peptides/proteins， CRISPR). In addition, experience with antimicrobial nanomaterials and in vitro and in vivo experiments will be considered a major plus. If you have another background that fits the overall scope of the project you are also welcome to apply.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will have the opportunity to work on an interesting and challenging project that will profit from your enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to implement new methodologies. We consider a significant publication record, the motivation for independent research, but also for teamwork as key qualifications. The candidate should also have demonstrated outstanding problem-solving skills as well as very good communication skills in both spoken and written English.
As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The position is a full-time position 37 h/week. The period of employment is 1 year.
The workplace is DTU Health Tech at DTU Lyngby Campus.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Chengfang Pang Kamp, email chet@dtu.dk.
You can read more about DTU Health Tech at Department of Health Technology – DTU Health Tech.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 July 2022 (Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- Application (cover letter)
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU Health Tech
DTU Health Tech engages in research, education, and innovation base on technical and natural science for the healthcare sector. The Healthcare sector is a globally expanding market with demands for the most advanced technological solutions. DTU Health Tech creates the foundation for companies to develop new and innovative services and products which benefit people and create value for society. DTU Health Techs expertise spans from imaging and biosensor techniques, across digital health and biological modelling, to biopharma technologies.The department has a scientific staff of about 210 persons, 140 PhD students and a technical/administrative support staff of about 160 persons, of which a large majority contributes to our research infrastructure and related commercial activities.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 13,400 students and 5,800 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.