
Research Updates Foundation(Master/ PhD/ Postdoc/ Job)
June 13, 2025 at 08:11 AM
Required: Postdoctoral Researcher – Biopolymer Engineering
Location: Biochemical Engineering Laboratory, UNIST, South Korea
Project background
Our group focuses on designing sustainable biopolymers by rewiring microbial metabolism. The new post-doctoral fellow will drive a funded project that couples advanced molecular biology with fermentation engineering to produce commercial scale bio-based materials especially biopolymers.
Key responsibilities
Strain construction & validation – design, clone and integrate gene cassettes;
Lab-scale & pilot-scale fermentations – develop fed-batch strategies, optimise media, and analyse titres/yield/productivity for target biopolymers.
Data interpretation & dissemination – compile results for weekly meetings, draft manuscripts, contribute to patent filings, mentor junior researchers.
Essential qualifications
PhD (completed or near completion) in Molecular Biology, Metabolic Engineering, Synthetic Biology, Biochemical Engineering or a closely related field.
Deep familiarity with gene-cloning workflows (Gibson, or similar) and microbial strain engineering (E. coli, P. aeruginosa or other industrial hosts).
Demonstrated hands-on experience running controlled fermentations (bench-top bioreactors; ~1 L scale).
Solid track record of peer-reviewed publications or equivalent demonstrable potential.
Excellent written and spoken English; strong data-driven problem-solver; team-oriented mindset.
Desirable assets
Experience with gene manipulation and synthetic biology toolkits.
Familiarity with polymer characterisation techniques (GPC, GC-MS, Thermal Analysis).
What we offer
One-year contract (renewable) with a competitive post-doctoral salary and full benefits.
Access to state-of-the-art molecular biology, fermentation, and analytical facilities.
Opportunity to publish in high-impact journals and to co-invent IP.
A collaborative, inclusive lab culture and active professional-development support.
Application instructions
Send a single PDF to [email protected] containing:
Cover letter (~1 pages) outlining how your skills align with the project.
CV with publication list.
Contact info for two referees (they will only be contacted after short-listing).
We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, or cultural background.