An opportunity has arisen for a three-year PhD position within the Institute of Environmental Biotechnology at BOKU University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna. Our group conducts research aimed at the identification of enzymes involved in the degradation of recalcitrant polymers. We are currently looking for a highly motivated PhD student interested in the mechanistic investigation of polymer biodegradation and in the development of screening methods for enzymes in collaboration with leading industrial partners.

The ideal candidate should hold an MSc degree in biotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, or equivalent. Experience in working with enzymes (hydrolases), recombinant expression and characterization of enzymes will be an added advantage. He or she is ready to dive quickly into this ongoing project, has strong communication skills in English and is motivated to work in an inter- and transdisciplinary team at the BOKU-Campus in Tulln. The successful candidate should also enjoy collaborations with scientists and engineers outside of their discipline building on an international network of the group.

We offer research at an internationally renowned University with outstanding connections to the industry, modern and high-end working equipment, profound scientific, interactive work in a young, motivated and international team, as well as the beautiful town of Tulln (20 minutes from Vienna) as an appealing place to work and live. The Institute offers multidisciplinary research in basic life sciences, engineering sciences and biotechnology for a sustainable bioeconomy.

Highly qualified and motivated students are invited to apply for the three-year PhD position. BOKU offers a 30 hours/week position as a Junior Scientist (predoctoral). The gross monthly income is EUR 2.096,- per month (14 times a year) according to Gehaltsgruppe B1 of the Austrian collective contract for university employees.

Applicants should submit their CV and a covering letter including full contact details of two referees to Dr. Doris Ribitsch and Professor Georg Guebitz, E-mail: officeUT@boku.ac.at BOKU PhD entry requirements must be met.