Mass Spectrometry Application Associate (various levels) for the Proteomics Research Infrastructure

Proteomics Research Infrastructure, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen is looking for a Mass Spectrometry Application Associate to join the team.

About us

The Proteomics Research Infrastructure (PRI) is a state-of-the-art mass spectrometry (MS) based proteomics research facility located at the faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen.

PRI offers easy and timely access to the newest proteomics technologies, providing support at all levels from consultancy, sample preparation, MS measurements and data analysis. PRI is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) and linked to the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research (CPR), a top-notch research institute for fundamental protein research and a world leader in its proteomics technologies. The research environment at PRI and CPR is vibrant, ambitious, and international, with many different nationalities represented. The working language is English.

Your tasks

The successful candidate will collaborate as part of a team to operate and maintain advanced LC-MS instrumentation. PRI currently houses six state-of-the-art MS instruments: two Thermo Astral, two Thermo Ascend, one Bruker timsTOF HT, and one Bruker timsTOF Pro2, all dedicated to analyzing service requests for its large user base. The candidate will employ the latest MS measurement strategies to generate high-quality datasets. The candidate will refer directly to the PRI Director Michael Wierer, who can prioritize the tasks when necessary.

Your tasks will also include:

• Processing MS datasets with analysis software (e.g. DIA-NN, Spectronaut, FragPipe, MaxQuant), optimizing search parameters.
• Collaborating with PRI users to customize MS methods for specific projects.
• Conducting regular quality control to ensure optimal instrument performance.
• Maintaining and trouble-shooting MS and HPLC instruments for reliable operation.
• Implementing new MS methods to stay at the forefront of the field.
• Liaising with technical support for efficient problem resolution.
• Co-authoring publications when relevant.

Your profile

The ideal candidate should be reliable and well-organized, capable of working independently while demonstrating flexibility and accuracy. A deep understanding of LC-MS/MS technology and proven experience in MS method development and application are essential. Additionally, the candidate should possess strong interpersonal skills and have a genuine interest in collaborating within an international team.

The ideal candidates should fulfill the following qualifications:

• A relevant academic degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, or related fields).
• Proven experience in operating and maintaining LC-MS instrumentation.
• Experience with proteomics workflows, from sample prep to data analysis, is advantageous.
• Expertise in Thermo Orbitrap and Bruker timsTOF operation is a distinct advantage.
• Basic knowledge of MS data analysis.
• Service-oriented personality with a strong team-player attitude.
• Strong English communication skills, both oral and written.

Employment conditions

The employment is a 2-year fixed position with the possibility of extension. The estimated start date is November 2024. Working hours are 37 hours per week (full time).

The employment conditions and salary are made in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Employment will be as an academic employee or special consultant depending on qualifications.

More information

For more information, please contact PRI Director Michael Wierer ()

Your application

Please submit your online application, including CV and other relevant documentation (Master’s diploma), through the KU Job Portal (use this link) latest by September 16, 2024.

The University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of personal background. 

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.