Seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher (26-158) Part-time

Postdoctoral Researcher

In our Geobiology and Astrobiology Laboratory RIKEN Pioneering Research Institute (Chief Scientist: Shino Suzuki), we are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to focus on genomic analysis of microorganisms inhabiting extreme environments where carbon monoxide is present. The primary focus is on the evolutionary study of carbon fixation pathways, integrating fieldwork and bioinformatics approaches. The role also includes efforts to improve the accuracy of various omics analyses.

The job description may be changed during the contract period or upon contract renewal to the extent described above.

The laboratory currently focuses on understanding and utilizing microorganisms that inhabit the subterranean biosphere. Subterranean microorganisms are essential components of the Earth's composition and are believed to retain characteristics of early life, yet much of this microbial diversity remains unexplored. Our approach encompasses a combination of fieldwork, microbial cultivation, physiological function analysis, and bioinformatics to elucidate the unknown ecology and metabolic functions of microorganisms inhabiting their natural environment. Through these studies, our primary goal is to contribute to our understanding of origin of life and early life evolution, expand into the field of astrobiology, and engage in the exploration and exploitation of functional genes present in extremophilic microorganisms.

RIKEN Wako Campus (2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198) is the work location. RIKEN may order the employee to change work locations, if necessary.

A fixed-term employment contract up to one year in length, with a term lasting from date of hire to March 31, 2027. The contract will not be renewed upon expiration. In principle, the first two months of employment are considered a trial period. Salary will be an annual salary based on experience, ability, and performance, and will consist of a base salary and a variable salary. The variable salary will be determined each fiscal year based on experience, ability, and performance. Discretionary work, commuting and housing allowances will be provided. Social insurance will be applied. The total amount of monthly discretionary work allowance and monthly salary at the time of hiring will be 382,610 JPY or more.

RIKEN has a telecommuting system, but this position requires attendance at the work location. Therefore, the telecommuting system is not available for this position, in principle.

This position falls under the specialized duties discretionary work system; one working day will be calculated as 7 hours and 30 minutes. Days off include public holidays, New Year's holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3), and RIKEN Foundation Day. Paid leave includes annual paid leave (up to 20 days depending on the month of employment), special paid leave (caring for a sick child, family nursing care, etc.), and work life balance holidays (up to 7 days depending on the month of employment). There are also additional leave systems such as maternity leave, childcare leave, and family nursing care leave. Smoking is entirely prohibited on site. These and other provisions are in accordance with RIKEN regulations. Mandatory membership in the RIKEN Mutual Benefit Society (RIKEN Kyosaikai).

Eligible to apply for the MEXT Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (Kakenhi). RIKEN is actively undertaking initiatives to promote gender equality and diversity, and moving forward with the establishment of a diverse and vibrant research environment. If multiple candidates are found to have the same aptitude following a fair assessment, active efforts will be made to recruit female candidates. The Wako Campus has an on-site daycare, RIKEN Kids Wako. For details, please send an email to kids@riken.jp.

Applicants should possess strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with both internal and external research partners. Postdoctoral researchers must have obtained a Ph.D. in a relevant field within the past five years, or be expected to obtain the degree by the start date.

The above documents should be combined into a single ZIP file and uploaded to the RIKEN/PRI file upload box. After you upload the file, please notify the file name to the email address at contact information below. If a confirmation email is not received within 7 days after submission, please contact to the same email address. Note: All the submitted documents will not be returned.

Open until the position is filled. Submitted documents are strictly protected under the RIKEN Privacy Policy and will be used only for the purpose of applicant screening at RIKEN. Personal information will not be disclosed, transferred or loaned to a third party under any circumstances without just cause.

For inquiries, please send an email to shino.suzuki@riken.jp.