Position available at NAICONS: PEST-BIN
An Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) will be recruited as a PhD candidate to perform research in antibacterial drug discovery as part of the H2020-funded ITN project PEST-BIN (https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/955626). The aim of the project is to train ESRs in an interdisciplinary and intersectoral environment in diagnostics, infection mechanisms and killing biofilms.
The selected candidate will be employed for three years at NAICONS Srl (Milan, Italy; www.naicons.com), where he/she will perform most of the research work aimed at identifying and characterizing novel antibacterial agents from microbial sources. He/she is expected to perform part of the research work at secondment institutions and to register for a PhD programme at the University of Milano-Bicocca, IT.
The PEST-BIN Consortium objectives: Antibiotic resistance has been named as one of the greatest threats to global health by the World Health Organization. There are increasing numbers of bacterial infections not responding to known antibiotics. The humanity needs to pioneer disruptive technologies to re-gain the upper hand. To do so, PEST-BIN mobilizes six universities, three research institutes, a hospital and five private companies with one common mission: to pioneer novel technologies to fight bacterial infections. Our network will combine very diverse tools: from nano-engineering, antibiotic discovery and production, via proteomics-based diagnostics to big data analysis using artificial intelligence (AI) – all of which will be contribute to new, interdisciplinary technologies. All PEST-BIN ESRs will be trained in an intersectoral environment – experiencing a tight collaboration among academia, healthcare and the private sector.
Eligibility criteria: Master degree (M.Sc. or equivalent graduation). Applicants must not have been awarded a PhD degree and must be in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their research careers prior to the recruitment. They must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Italy for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the recruitment. The communication and teaching language throughout PEST-BIN is English, so proof of English proficiency is required.
Additional requirements: Degree in chemical or biological sciences with a strong background in chemistry, biochemistry and microbiology, with a strong interest in applied research and bioinformatics. Previous research experience with antibiotics, actinomycetes and/or natural products will be a plus.
Benefits: Salary and additional benefits are according to EU-standards for Marie Curie ESRs. Employment contract will be according to Italian labor laws.
Application: To apply, please send the following documents to: pestbin@naicons.com
- Personal statement/motivation letter (up to 2 pages) about applicant’s experience and interests [Provide also authorization to handle personal data according to EU General Data Protection Regulation.]
- A complete CV (personal details, academic/education history, research experience, experimental skills, publications etc.)
- Proficiency of English language skills corresponding to at least level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
- Official list of grades obtained during the applicant’s bachelor and master studies
- Names and contact information of at least two qualified references
EURAXESS Job Offer id: 573572
Application deadline: January 31, 2021
Planned start date: March to April 2021
