The EU project GlycoSpec aims to investigate fundamental aspects of the reaction and fragmentation mechanisms of oligosaccharides. For this purpose, a novel instrument combining ion mobility mass spectrometry and gas-phase infrared spectroscopy will be developed in a first step. The basis for the development is a commercially available ion mobility mass spectrometer. Subsequently, the newly developed instrument is used to structurally investigate reactive cationic intermediates from sugar chemistry and fragments from glycan mass spectrometry. The instrument will also deployed to study the glycome of patients with diseases that affect the sugar composition. In addition, the potential of the method to elucidate structures in metabolomics experiments should be tested.

Job description:
Analysis of clinical samples to decipher the sugar code of patients with cystic fibrosis. Liquid chromatography, tandem mass spectrometry, ion mobility mass spectrometry and gas-phase infrared spectroscopy will be combined in a novel instrument with a cryogenic ion trap.

Requirements:
• Completed scientific degree (M.Sc. or Diploma) and completed doctorate in physical or analytical chemistry

(Professional) Experience:
• Experience in mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry and ion mobility mass spectrometry
• experience in liquid chromatography
• experience in metabolomics to discover clinical biomarkers

Desirable:
• Experience in chemometrics and artificial intelligence tools
• very good command of written and spoken English
• very good communication and writing skills

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include the following documents:
• A one-page letter of motivation why you want to work in EU project GlycoSpec, together with details of previous research experience and future goals
• your CV (including a list of publications if applicable),
• evidence of your academic achievements including copies of your Bachelor's, Master's and PhD degrees
• at least two letters of support