Doctoral candidate in Microbiology (DC12)

Offer description

This project will address the identification of biofilm inhibitors using Functional Metagenomics and High Throughput Screening. The researcher will be particularly focused on the discovery of inhibitors of queuosine (Q), a tRNA modification that controls biofilm formation and virulence in bacteria and represents a promising new target to prevent infections or biofouling. Using a patented Q reporter strain and developing multiplate and microfluidic workflows, Q inhibitors will be screened in large metagenomic libraries from different microbial communities, from gut microbiome to extreme environments. Identified anti-Q genes and compounds will be characterized, and their anti-biofilm activities will be tested.

Research field: Biological Sciences, Technology
Type of contract: Temporary
Job status: Full-time
Hours per week: (37,5 full-time)
Offer starting date: Flexible between April 1st and September 1st 2026
Application deadline: Application opens in November 2025 and remains open until January 12th, 2026.

Requirements

Education level: Master’s
Skills/Qualifications: Master’s in Microbiology/Biotechnology/Molecular Biosciences or similar.
Specific requirements: Experience in at least 1 of the following: molecular microbiology, molecular microbial ecology, microbial genetic engineering, microbiology of extremophiles, functional metagenomics
Motivation letter, full academic transcript of BSc, and MSc, CV and 2 references

Required languages: Excellent level of English
Required research experience: BSc and MSc theses on topics related to: molecular microbiology, functional metagenomics, biochemistry, biotechnology or similar. Additional research experience (e.g. internships, contracts) related to microbial pathogenesis, molecular microbial ecology, bioinformatics or similar is welcome.

Benefits

Will be enrolled in a relevant Doctoral Programme at UAM; Training programme of the MetaExplore network, focused on bioinformatic and activity-based mining of metagenomes, soft skills, and entrepreneurial skills; Salary according to MSCA-DN criteria for Spain, including mobility allowance and family allowance, where pertinent.

Eligibility criteria

Must not hold a PhD at the time of recruitment; Must not have resided in Spain more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to the date of recruitment; Must have successfully completed a Master’s Degree before September 2026, granting access to doctoral programs within the EEES

Selection process

Open, transparent and merit-based process consisting of evaluation of CV, motivation letter, academic transcript and personal interview (online) of shortlisted candidates.

Additional comments: Applications to this offer must compulsory be registered through the online application system of UAM. Nevertheless, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the PI beforehand to discuss their suitability for the position and to seek assistance with the online application system.