Douwe van Sinderen

Position Overview: The APC Microbiome Ireland at University College Cork is seeking a Post-Doctoral Researcher for a 24-month, full-time fixed-term position. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team focused on the project "Danone - Lifestyle Switches in Human Commensals; Control of Carbohydrate Utilization in Bifidobacteria." This role involves advanced research in bacterial cultivation, genome and transcriptome sequencing and analysis, as well as microbiological, biochemical, immunological, and molecular biological activities. Research Focus: The project centers on understanding the mechanisms of carbohydrate utilization in bifidobacteria, key members of the human gut microbiome. The research will employ state-of-the-art molecular biology and genomics techniques to investigate how lifestyle switches in human commensal bacteria influence their metabolic capabilities. The work is highly relevant to microbiome science, human health, and the development of functional foods and probiotics. Institution and Environment: University College Cork is a leading research university in Ireland, with APC Microbiome Ireland recognized internationally for excellence in microbiome research. The successful candidate will benefit from a collaborative and inclusive research environment, access to cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities for career development within the Irish Universities Association framework. Funding and Duration: The position is fully funded for 24 months, with a competitive salary ranging from €46,306 to €52,863 (IUA PD1 Salary Scale). The post is not funded by an EU programme. University College Cork is an accredited research organization and can facilitate hosting agreements for third country and non-EEA nationals. Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must hold a PhD in molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, or a closely related discipline. Substantial laboratory experience, particularly in carbohydrate utilization in bifidobacteria, is essential and should be supported by peer-reviewed publications. Excellent English language skills are required. Candidates who have completed PD1 or PD2 levels in another Irish HEI may not be eligible for appointment at a similar level in another Irish HEI. Application Process: Applications must be submitted online via the University College Cork vacancy portal ( https://ore.ucc.ie/ ) by 12 noon (Irish Local Time) on Friday, December 12th, 2025. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Douwe van Sinderen at [email protected] . Interviews will be conducted online the week following the application deadline. Late applications will not be considered. Diversity and Inclusion: University College Cork is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. The university encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups, and supports equal opportunities and diversity in its hiring practices. For further information on the position, institutional policies, and to apply, please visit the official vacancy portal or contact the supervisor directly.

This full-time, fixed-term postdoctoral position at University College Cork is based within APC Microbiome Ireland, a leading research centre focused on microbiome science. The successful candidate will join the Danone Bifidomics project, contributing to research activities involving bacterial cultivation, genome and transcriptome sequencing and analysis, as well as microbiological, biochemical, immunological, and molecular biological techniques. The role is designed for an established researcher with a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, or immunology, and with substantial laboratory experience, particularly with bifidobacteria, as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications. APC Microbiome Ireland offers a dynamic and collaborative research environment, supporting innovative projects at the intersection of microbiology and health. The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with Professor Douwe van Sinderen and the APC team, developing and executing experimental protocols, analyzing data, and contributing to the overall success of the project. The position is open to candidates from all backgrounds, including third country nationals and non-EEA nationals, with hosting agreements available for research purposes at UCC. University College Cork is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups and fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of its student population. The institution provides equal opportunities and supports career development for researchers through frameworks such as the Irish Universities Association Researcher Career Development Framework. The appointment is for 12 months, with interviews scheduled online the week following the application deadline. Applicants must submit their materials online via the UCC vacancy portal before 12 noon (Irish Local Time) on Friday, 21st November 2025. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Douwe van Sinderen at [email protected]. For further details, consult the information package available at https://ore.ucc.ie/. This position does not specify funding details or EU programme support, and appointment is subject to university approval and employment control framework terms. For more information on UCC’s diversity policies and initiatives, visit https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/policies/ and https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/implementation/.