Research assistant in DNA based biodiversity analyses

About the position

A position as a Research assistant in DNA-based biodiversity analyses is available in the section for Genetics and Evolutionary Biology (Evogene) at the Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo.

The position is mainly funded by the Norwegian Research Council and is limited to 2 years. Starting date as soon as possible and no later than 1st August 2024.

Knowledge development in a changing world – Science and technology towards 2030.

The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

Job description

Many species face extinction within a few decades unless actions are taken to reduce biodiversity loss. The most important drivers of species decline worldwide are changes in land use and direct exploitation of natural resources. During the last century, the boreal forests of northern Europe have been transformed by stand based forest management for wood production, strongly affecting the forest biodiversity and associated ecosystem functions. In various research projects, we perform DNA-based biodiversity surveys of fungi and insects, the two most species rich taxonomic groups in forests. Current progress of DNA-sequencing technologies enables biodiversity assessment of organisms that cannot be identified with traditional inventory-based methods, rare species and species with short life cycle.

We seek a motivated, organised and skilled person to join our dynamic team working on microbial and insect biodiversity in boreal forests. The ideal candidate would have experience in processing different environmental samples and in molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and library preparation for high throughput sequencing. The candidate must be able to work independently and have a strong interest and ability in producing high quality scientific data. An interest in improving and developing relevant DNA-analyses techniques will also be considered advantageous. There will be possibilities for conducting fieldwork.

On a daily basis, the research assistant will work closely with researchers and students in the Oslo Mycology Group and will be involved in several ongoing collaborative projects and interact with research partners from NMBU, NINA and NIBIO. Good communication competence, both verbal and written, along with excellent teamwork ability is highly desirable.

Responsibilities:

• Organize and process environmental samples (soil, dead wood, plants, insects, etc.)
• Conduct DNA extraction, quantification and PCR amplification
• Perform library preparation for short and long-read sequencing/metabarcoding
• Optimise microbiology and molecular biology protocols
• Keep good track record of work activities performed
• Tentatively perform various chemical analyses, e.g. measurements of ergosterol, pH, CNP, and secondary metabolites
• Possibility to be involved in bioinformatics analyses, depending on skills and interest of the candidate

Qualification requirements

The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences has a strategic ambition to be among Europe’s leading communities for research, education and innovation. Candidates for these fellowships will be selected in accordance with this, and expected to be in the upper segment of their class with respect to academic credentials.

Required qualifications:

• MSc degree in molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology or a related field, or a BSc degree combined with highly relevant work-experience in the field
• Good skills in molecular laboratory work with experience in DNA-based methods such as sample processing, DNA extraction, PCR and library preparation
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English

Desired qualifications:

• Knowledge in microbial ecology and biodiversity
• Fieldwork experience and sample collection in forest ecosystems is considered advantageous
• Experience with bioinformatics and handling of high throughput sequencing datasets

Personal skills

• Excellent methodological and organizational skills
• Capacity to take responsibility and work efficiently
• Capacity to handle multiple projects/tasks and ability to keep track record of daily tasks
• Ability to contribute to a well-functioning, inclusive and productive research environment
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude

Personal suitability for the position will be emphasized.

We offer

• Salary NOK 448 900 – 515 000  per annum depending on qualifications in position as research assistant (position code 1019/1020)
• Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement 
• A professionally stimulating working environment
• Oslo’s family-friendly surroundings with their rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities

How to apply

The application must include:

• Cover letter including a statement of interest, briefly summarizing your previous relevant work /technical experience and interests, and how you fit the description of the job profile
• CV summarizing education, positions and academic work
• Copies of the original Bachelor and/or Master’s degree diploma and transcripts of records.
• Documentation of English proficiency if applicable for candidates holding a degree in a different language
• Names and contact details of 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system (please follow the link “Apply for this job”). Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English or a Scandinavian language.

Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.

Formal regulations

Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Research Assistant Fellowships at the University of Oslo.

According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

UiO has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results a.o.

Inclusion and diversity are a strength. The University of Oslo has a personnel policy objective of achieving a balanced gender composition. Furthermore, we want employees with diverse professional expertise, life experience and perspectives.

If there are qualified applicants with disabilities, employment gaps or immigrant background, we will invite at least one applicant from each of these categories to an interview.

Contact information

For further information about the position please contact: Dr. Sundy Maurice, e-mail: sundy.maurice@ibv.uio.no and Prof. Håvard Kauserud, email: havard.kauserud@ibv.uio.no

For questions regarding Jobbnorge, please contact HR Adviser Nina holtan, e-mail: nina.holtan@mn.uio.no

DIVERSE INFO

Kilde: NAV stillingsannonser
https://arbeidsplassen.nav.no/stillinger/stilling/703caaf8-c7a5-4271-bdd3-acf29de50a83
IMPORTAPI
https://www.jobbnorge.no/ledige-stillinger/stilling/261732