Postdoctoral Researcher in Protist Single-Cell Genomics

Postdoctoral Researcher in Protist Single-Cell Genomics
Aalborg University
Aalborg, Denmark
Do you want to push the frontiers of technology to read the genomes of uncultured, unicellular eukaryotes that shape ecosystems across our planet?
At Aalborg University’s Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, we seek a skilled and motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to develop next-generation laboratory methods for single-cell genomics and transcriptomics of uncultured protists. The position is part of an international project funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and conducted in collaboration with the Earlham Institute, the Scottish Association for Marine Science, and the Culture Collection of Algae and Protozoa. The appointment starts from 1 January 2027 or soon hereafter and is a fixed-term position for 3 years.
Your work tasks
You will lead laboratory technology development for single-cell genomics of protists in close collaboration with Prof. Ramunas Stepanauskas and his group. Protists are notoriously difficult to process at the single-cell level because of their diverse, often robust cell walls and intracellular structures, as well as their large, complex genomes. Your work will address these bottlenecks. Key tasks include:
Integrating cutting-edge technologies, including droplet microfluidics with semi-permeable capsules, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and long-read sequencing, into analytical workflows tailored to protists in diverse environmental samples;
Improving single-cell lysis and DNA amplification methods tailored to diverse protist lineages;
Publishing results in leading journals and openly sharing protocols with the research community.
You will also be able to train in bioinformatics tools for microbial single-cell genomics through work alongside our bioinformatics team. The project involves close collaboration with partner laboratories in the UK and the US, including shared benchmark samples, research stays, and workshops. This makes it a strong platform for building diverse, international research experiences and professional networks.
Your competencies
You must hold a PhD in microbiology, biotechnology, or a related field (or expect to complete it before the start date) and have a track record of first-author publications in international peer-reviewed journals. The ideal candidate has documented hands-on experience with one or more of the following: molecular laboratory methods, including nucleic acid extraction, whole-genome amplification, library preparation, and sequencing; genomics or transcriptomics of microorganisms; microfluidics or droplet-based methods; and flow cytometry and cell sorting.
Experience with protists or other microbial eukaryotes, and either experience or a strong interest in bioinformatics, are advantages. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are essential, as is genuine enthusiasm for working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and international research environment.
Apply Now
Deadline 20 November
Don't forget to mention EuroScienceJobs when applying.
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