Project assistant within bioinformatics and microbiology

Description of the workplace

The research is conducted at Lund University within an interdisciplinary research group with expertise in structural biology, bioinformatics, gene editing, microbiology, and sequencing technologies. The group collaborates with researchers in environmental microbiology and medical research to develop innovative methods for microbiome analysis. We are an open, independent, and tolerant research group that values diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration. The position may require occasional travel to Copenhagen.

We offer 

Lund University is a governmental authority, which means you get special benefits, generous holidays and a favourable occupational pension. We also have a flexible time agreement that creates good conditions for a balance between work and leisure.

Read more on the university's website about being employed at Lund University, Work with us.

• A dynamic research environment with access to advanced sequencing technology.
• The opportunity to work in an international team with expertise in bioinformatics and microbiology. 

Work duties and responsibilities

• Conduct DNA sequencing analyses using Oxford Nanopore technology.
• Develop and optimize pipelines for bioinformatic analysis of metagenomic data.
• Perform taxonomic classification and identify eCIS clusters in microbial communities.
• Analyze antibiotic resistance genes and their transmission patterns.
• Support publishing process of research findings in scientific journals
• Collaborate with the research team to develop innovative methods for microbiome analysis.

Qualifications

This position is part of a research project focused on identifying and analyzing Extracellular Contractile Injection Systems (eCIS) in wastewater and the human microbiome. The research group operates in an interdisciplinary environment with expertise in bioinformatics, microbiology, and sequencing technologies.

As a project assistant, you will be responsible for DNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing using Oxford Nanopore technology. You will analyze metagenomic data and develop pipelines to identify microbial communities, antibiotic resistance genes, and eCIS clusters. The position involves close collaboration with researchers in wastewater research, microbiome studies, and bioinformatics.

Requirements for the position are:

• A Master’s degree in bioinformatics, microbiology, biotechnology, or a related field.
• Experience in sequencing data analysis and bioinformatics tools (e.g., Kraken2, Prokka, BLAST).
• Experience working with Python, R, and Unix-based systems.
• The ability to independently conduct research and analyze large datasets.
• Strong communication skills and experience working in interdisciplinary research teams.

Meritorious for the position are:

• Experience with Oxford Nanopore sequencing and library preparation.
• Knowledge of machine learning for metagenomic data analysis.
• Experience writing scientific publications and grant applications.
• Previous research in antibiotic resistance and microbiome studies.

Terms 

The position is a fixed-term position of 100% for one year.

The desired start date is 2025-06-01 or by agreement. 

How to apply

• A personal letter describing your motivation and how your experience aligns with the position.
• CV, including a list of publications.
• Degree certificates and relevant certifications.
• Contact information for at least two references.