Research Engineer in microbial pathogen surveillance - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Job description

We are looking to employ a research engineer, full time, for 6 months working on Molecular level detection of Pathogens from environmental samples, particularly the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The employment is with KTH but the position is located in the Swedish Agricultural University, Uppsala, and under the Environmental Virus Profiling research area (EVP-RA) of the COVID-19 National Program of SciLifeLab.

The EVP-RA explores and monitors the genetic material of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic in environmental samples such as wastewater, surface swabs and air samples. The members of the research area are involved in routine monitoring of samples from different environments as well as in method development towards more accurate and sensitive virus detection. The data generated is used to understand the epidemiological dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 on a population level and generate both high-impact scientific studies as well as information that can directly help health authorities.

Accordingly, the projects of the research area include routine measurements as well as method development and state-of-the-art molecular environmental virus surveillance based research. Therefore, the employed research engineer will be involved in the following tasks:

• Processing and biobanking of diverse environmental samples received in the lab.
• Organizing protocols, following sample processing and data analysis pipelines.
• Perform development of viral concentration and diversity analysis methods including process optimization for high-throughput sample analyses.

What we offer

• An opportunity to work on the frontline of Infectious disease monitoring and research.
• A position at a leading technical university that generates knowledge and skills for a sustainable future.
• Engaged and ambitious colleagues along with a creative, international and dynamic working environment
• Work in Stockholm, in close proximity to nature
• Help to relocate and get settled in Sweden and at KTH.

Read more about what it is like to work at KTH

Qualifications

Requirements

• A graduate degree or an advanced level (higher education) in the research subject or equivalent competence
• Molecular Biology background 
• Experience in qPCR and other detection methods is highly desired
• Experience in large-scale sample processing as well as work flow design is commendable
• Professional skills
• Good working knowledge of both written and spoken English 

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in processing of environmental samples for molecular analyses including RNA extraction is preferred
• Good working knowledge of both written and spoken in Swedish 
• Collaborative abilities
• Independence
• Awareness of diversity and equal opportunity issues, with specific focus on gender equality

Great emphasis will be placed on personal competence and suitability.

Trade union representatives

You will find contact information to trade union representatives at KTH's webbpage.

Application

Log into KTH's recruitment system in order to apply to this position. You are the main responsible to ensure that your application is complete according to the ad. Your application must include:

• CV including relevant professional experience and knowledge.
• Brief account of why you want to conduct research, your academic interests and how they relate to your previous studies and future goals. Max one page long.
• Name and contact of two references.

Your complete application must be received by KTH no later than the last day of application, midnight CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

About the employment

Temporary employment for up to 6 months with eventual possibility of extension..

The employment is limited by agreement.

Other information

Striving towards gender equality, diversity and equal conditions is both a question of quality for KTH and a given part of our values

For information about processing of personal data in the recruitment process please read here.

We firmly decline all contact with staffing and recruitment agencies and job ad salespersons.

Disclaimer: In case of discrepancy between the Swedish original and the English translation of the job announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.