Enzyme Engineering Lead

Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences

The position will be hosted within the Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences (DCBP) (https://www.dcbp.unibe.ch/index_eng.html), a highly interdisciplinary department that brings together diverse research groups and houses state-of-the-art facilities, including X-ray, NMR, and advanced mass spectrometry instrumentation. The DCBP places a strong emphasis on sustainability, with catalysis in its various forms serving as a central research theme across many laboratories.

The DCBP (Buller Laboratory) is seeking a highly motivated Enzyme Engineering Lead to drive the development of industrial biocatalysts using data-driven and automated approaches. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team of experimental scientists, automation specialists, and bioinformaticians, working closely with industry partners to translate advanced enzyme engineering research into real-world applications. Our team operates in an innovation-focused, collaborative environment that encourages cross-functional exchange and offers the opportunity to contribute to pioneering projects at the forefront of biocatalysis.

Your tasks

Your responsibilities include, but are not limited to,

• Lead innovative research projects in biocatalysis and enzyme engineering
• Develop and optimize enzymatic assays, including miniaturization strategies
• Design, generate, and screen enzyme variant libraries using cutting-edge approaches, including computational methods and high-throughput experimentation
• Drive projects in close collaboration with industry partners, ensuring alignment between scientific innovation and application needs
• Drive the development and expansion of state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure
• Mentor and support junior researchers and students

Your profile

You are an independent, curious, creative, and ambitious team player who enjoys interdisciplinary science, mastering new things, and rigorous experimental work. You possess:

• PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience
• Strong theoretical and practical expertise in: (Computational) protein engineering, Enzyme assay development, Analytical techniques (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC-MS), Modern sequencing technologies
• Experience with laboratory automation and LIMS integration is an advantage
• Passion for applied research in a future-oriented field
• Strong interest in translating scientific ideas into practical, technical solutions
• Excellent collaboration and networking skills in multidisciplinary environments
• Curiosity, initiative, and strong communication skills, with a passion for mentoring