As seen in the 30 October issue of Science:

POSTOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

in Microbiology



The Energy Biosciences Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work in an interdisciplinary program using microbiological and enzymological approaches for identifying novel enzymes in lignocellulose degradation that can be used to enhance biofuel production. The focus of this position is development and application of genetic tools to assist enzyme identification in Streptomyces and related microorganisms. The Postdoctoral Associate will construct deletion mutants of strains of Streptomyces so that the importance of the specific enzymes implicated in lignocellulose degradation can be established. The Postdoctoral Associate also will construct strains of Streptomyces to facilitate enhanced degradation of lignocellulose.



Required qualifications: Ph.D. in microbiology, molecular biology, or closely related discipline required. The applicant should be well versed in techniques of molecular biology and microbiology. Experience with genetics and physiology of Streptomyces is highly desired but not required. The ability to work collaboratively within a team is required.



Applicants should send electronically to Prof. John A. Gerlt, e-mail: j-gerlt@illinois.edu the following materials: (1) curriculum vitae, (2) a letter describing research interests and experience, and (3) names and contact information for three references. Review of completed applications will begin November 1, 2009, and continue until position is filled.