We are seeking a highly motivated researcher (Post Doc) to develop innovative cellular architectures enabling novel metabolic pathways in methylotrophic yeasts. The successful candidate will design and engineer synthetic compartmentalization strategies that mimic and expand natural organelle functions to achieve efficient C1 bioconversion.
Project Context
In nature, organelles provide dedicated environments for specific biochemical conversions. Their selective enrichment of enzymes and metabolites enhances reaction efficiency, prevents unwanted side reactions, and allows for fine-tuned control of redox potential, pH, and cofactor availability. This project aims to translate these advantages into an engineered biological system by leveraging the unique metabolic and structural features of methylotrophic yeasts.
The focus lies on exploring the peroxisome as a productive compartment for converting one‑carbon (C1) building blocks into valuable biochemicals. Tailoring metabolic pathways to function in this specialized environment will be central to achieving high‑yield, selective conversions. In addition, the project seeks to gain fundamental insights into the biology of methylotrophic yeasts, deepening our understanding of their organelle dynamics, metabolic regulation, and potential for biotechnological innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Engineer and optimize synthetic pathways in yeasts.
- Modify cellular redox and cofactor systems to support novel bioconversions.
- Employ molecular biology, metabolic modeling, and advanced microscopy to analyze pathway performance.
- Collaborate with experts in metabolic engineering, systems biology, and biochemical analysis.
- Supervision of PhD, master and bachelor students.
Candidate Profile
- Finished PhD (or equivalent research experience) in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemical engineering, or a related field.
- Strong background in yeast genetics and synthetic biology.
- Experience with bioreactors.
- Experience in the analysis of proteomic, genomic datasets (bioinformatic skills).
- Experience with enzyme compartmentalization, or peroxisome function is advantageous.
- Interest in integrating fundamental cell biology with applied biomanufacturing.
- Skilled in scientific writing (papers, project applications).
- Demonstrated team spirit with willingness to collaborate across disciplines in an international research setting.
- Strong ability for creative thinking to design unconventional solutions for synthetic cellular environments.
We Offer
- A stimulating interdisciplinary environment linking cellular engineering and metabolic innovation.
- Access to modern research infrastructure for molecular, biochemical, and systems-level analysis.
- Opportunity to contribute to a pioneering approach in yeast cell factory design.
- 40h/ week – 24 Month.
- Minimum gross monthly salary according to the B1 salary group according to the Austrian university collective agreement (as of 2025 : EUR 3,714.80 for full-time employment).
Main supervisor: Associate Prof. Matthias Steiger
Location: TU Wien, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060 Vienna
Duration: 24 Months, 40h/week
Submission deadline: 30.04.2026
Application guidelines
Please send your job application to cb_recruiting@boku.ac.at , indicating your name and the project/position number in the subject line (e.g. “Jane Doe, application for PD 2.4”).
Further information on Application documents and formal criteria see Application guidlines – PDs — circular bioengineering. The application must meet all formal criteria, otherwise it cannot be considered.
Submission deadline: 30.04.2025.