Automation

General
We are looking for a Diploma Student in the Protein Purification and Characterization Team at the AstraZeneca Biotech Laboratory (ABL) in Södertälje for a period of six months (20 points, start after summer 2003). The group consists of eight people. The objectives of the group are to develop purification methods and to purify proteins from mg to gram amounts. Further to characterize proteins using a variety of methods. The group is also involved in projects for improving protein purification (automation) and protein function (modifying physical characteristics to improve functional properties).

Jobdescription
Within the context of a project to automate the expression, purification and characterization of recombinant proteins several process steps should be optimized. The aim of your project is the optimization of one or several of these process modules contained within this bigger automation project. You will apply state of the art robotic devices and techniques for all of your approaches.
One part could be the systematical screening of growth and homogenization conditions for microbial cells producing heterologous recombinant proteins to improve the yield. An additional task could include the systematical evaluation of conditions to successfully refold insoluble proteins from inclusion bodies. Furthermore you could also investigate novel techniques to assess the aggregation status of proteins chosen for crystallography or develop and automate a set of analytical methods applicable in a high throughput manner.

Qualification
You have studied either biology or chemistry or a related life-science discipline with an emphasize on biochemistry. Experience with automated devices or computer programming is an additional merit but not essential.

Contact
For more information please contact Stefan Schmidt, phone 08-552-53188

Please send your application no later than 30 May 2003 marked ¿10-7136 Automation¿ to [email protected] alternative to AstraZeneca R&D Södertälje, Human Resources, Lili Hofbauer, 151 85 Södertälje. We prefer applications by e-mail.