Project description

The overall project aim is to gain a better understanding of the bioavailability of food and feed ingredients and to find ways to optimize it. Drosophila melanogaster is a powerful model organism to rapidly and cost-effectively study complex interactions in vivo. Intestinal microbial communities play a crucial role in how nutrients become available and can be utilized by the host. We aim to use powerful genetic and analytical tools to study host-microbe interactions in the fruit fly. By understanding how these interactions shape animal physiology in the context of nutrition, we ultimately strive to develop improved food and feed products.

Your tasks

You will work on the Josef Ressel Centre for Innovative Bioavailability Research project as part of a young, interdisciplinary and international team. Your areas of activity include:

•           Active participation in research projects within the JRC for Innovative Bioavailability Research

•           Writing of scientific publications and project reports as well as participation in the preparation of scientific project proposals

•           Participation in (inter-) national scientific conferences

•           Supervision of scientific theses

Your profile

•           Higher degree in natural sciences or technology (biology, molecular biology, analytical chemistry/biochemistry or comparable)

•           Experience in handling biological in vitro and in vivo systems (cell culture, Drosophila melanogaster) as well as basic molecular- and microbiological techniques

•           Experience and/or interest in the field of instrumental analysis is an advantage (HPLC, MS)

•           Basic statistical and computer skills

•           Ability to work independently in a scientific environment and strong problem-solving skills

•           Good written and spoken English skills

•           Interest and willingness to further develop the above-mentioned skills in the context of the dissertation

Start as soon as possible. The position is part-time (30h/week) and limited to 3 years.