Postdoctoral Fellow, Inter and Intra-Cellular Communication : Copenhagen, Denmark

Background:
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research has been established at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, to conduct research into basic metabolic functions based on an unconditional grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The position is in the section for Integrative Physiology headed by Juleen Zierath in the group for Inter and Intra-Cellular Communications led by Brice Emanuelli. The main research area of this group is the investigation of the signalling networks controlling cellular metabolism and which are associated with metabolic diseases like obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
 

Project Description:
Our molecular interrogation of the mechanisms mediating the transduction of the insulin signalling cascade and the regulation of metabolic processes involves a combination of quantitative proteomic and phosphoproteomic approaches, together with computational analysis, classic cell biology and physiology experiments in cells and animals. We anticipate discovering novel factors and pathways and aim at characterizing their regulation and physiological function by investigating their contribution in controlling processes such as adipogenesis, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, or insulin sensitivity.

Thus, the project includes a range of molecular biology and biochemistry related techniques (CRISPR-based gene editing, immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation techniques), cell biology (cell culture, gene silencing, cell metabolism, imaging), animal physiology and computing skills (database analysis).
We are seeking highly motivated and qualified candidates with a background in signal transduction and metabolism. The successful candidate will benefit from a dynamic, internationally diverse and stimulating scientific environment in a well-equipped laboratory to elucidate the molecular mechanisms controlling metabolic functions. The tentative start date would ideally be in Winter 2015.

Qualifications:
Essential criteria
• PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, physiology or related science
• Expertise in molecular and cellular biology, including immunoblotting, gene transfer or silencing, gene expression analysis, cell metabolism. 
• Proven track record in cell signalling, cell biology or regulation of metabolism
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, fluent English
• Demonstrated capacity for effective team work

Desirable criteria
• Knowledge in mammalian physiology and metabolic diseases
• Previous experience with animal work (FELASA certification)

Employment Conditions: 
Salary and other terms and conditions of appointment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant professional organisations. The position is covered by the Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities 2013.
The position will be at the level of postdoctoral fellow. The gross basic salary range for Postdoctoral Fellows is DKK 32,095 to DKK 33,791 per month (level 6 to 8). To the basic salary a supplement could be negotiated, dependent on the candidate’s experience and qualifications. An additional 17.1 % monthly contribution to pension will be paid by the employer.
Starting date is December 1st, 2015 or as soon as possible hereafter.

Relationships:
The post holder will report to the Leader of the Inter- and Intra-Cellular Communications Group (Brice Emanuelli), the Head of the Integrative Physiology Section (Juleen Zierath) and the Managing Director ofCBMR (Anne Stæhr Johansen). 
The post holder is expected to interact with staff at all levels, both internally and externally, regarding relevant research topics.

Application Procedure:
The application must be submitted in English no later than October 10th, 2015, by clicking on “Apply online” below, and must include the following:
• Application/motivational letter 
• Curriculum vitae 
• Diplomas – all relevant certificates
• References (name and contact details of at least two referees)
 

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Appointments Committee. All applicants are then immediately notified whether their application has been passed for assessment by an expert assessment committee. Selected applicants are notified of the composition of the committee and each applicant has the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that relates to the applicant him/herself.

Highly motivated and ambitious candidates are encouraged to apply. Solid experience and an excellent track record gained in leading laboratories in the research field will be considered a distinct advantage. In all cases, ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration, and thus we encourage all – regardless of their personal background and status – to apply.