Research position to generate gene libraries for the expansion of the genetic code

That could be your tasks

The research will focus on the generation of libraries of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and tRNAs for the expansion of the genetic code with non-canonical amino acids in E. coli.

• Database mining for gene sequences
• Gene library design
• Cloning of gene library constructs using cutting-edge DNA cloning and assembly methods
• Analysis of library sequence diversity
• Presentation of research results at regular project meetings

That’s important to us

The ideal candidate has very good background knowledge and hands-on experience beyond university classes of state-of-the-art microbiology and molecular biology techniques.

• Skilled use of sequence databases and tools to predict sequence-function relationships as well as sound knowledge in bioinformatics for library design are a big plus.
• Interest in expansion of the standard genetic code with non-canonical amino acids is essential.
• You have excellent communication skills that allow you to collaborate in an interdisciplinary team.
• You are enthusiastic to reach ambitious goals, to learn new techniques and to present your results in oral and written form.

That could be your future

Join our team at a reputable, nationally and internationally well-connected research centre at the forefront of biotechnological innovation. You will be embedded within the academic environment of BOKU Vienna at the Institute of Bioprocess Science and Engineering in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science. You are working in an enjoyable work climate, have numerous possibilities for further education and personal development. You are part of a challenging and helpful work environment full of team spirit and enthusiasm for your job. You expand your expertise and bridge your science to industry. We offer you fully flexible working hours and a package of voluntary social benefits (e.g. meal vouchers or tickets for public transport) are also part of our modern corporate culture. And not to forget: You make your research visible and broaden your network!

That’s what you should know

• The annual gross full-time salary is EUR 47.181
• This corresponds to a monthly gross amount of EUR 2.380 (paid 14 times a year).
• Start: 1st of April 2026 - duration for 9 months (with option for extension

And now it’s your turn! Give us an idea of who you are.

Apply to: If you feel addressed, please send your expressive letter of application together with your CV to Dr. Monika Cserjan (monika.cserjan@boku.ac.at) and PD Dr. Birgit Wiltschi (birgit.wiltschi@acib.at).

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, taking into account the requirements of the role. It is particularly important to us that our job offers appeal to all people, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, origin, age, nationality, or religion.