Postdoc in development of multi-target high-throughput diagnostics of fish diseases - DTU Aqua

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Postdoc in development of multi-target high-throughput diagnostics of fish diseases - DTU Aqua
Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
Job Description

DTU Aqua is looking for a postdoc to work with development and validation of multi-target high throughput diagnostics of diseases in aquaculture towards implementation as a diagnostic tool. Specifically, the work entails development of a microfluidic chip tool for high throughput qPCR tests. You will take part in the European Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare, which goals are to progress Europe towards healthy and sustainable livestock production systems (for both terrestrial and aquatic animals), including the reduction of anti-microbial usage, improve production animal welfare, and in line with the European Green Deal and farm-to-fork strategy. Furthermore, the EUP AH&W will enhance public health and well-being by facilitating cross-sector collaboration in a One Health – One Welfare perspective. The partnership includes 90 partners from all across Europe, and the first workplan was started on January 1st 2024 (https://www.provaxs.com/eupahw ). 

Your job will be in the Section for Fish- and shellfish diseases at DTU AQUA. We offer state-of-the art laboratory and experimental facilities, where we carry out research on virology, immunology and host-pathogen interactions. At the section for fish- and shellfish diseases, we have more than 30 years of experience with research on fish diseases, and a large international network. The section is the National reference laboratory on fish, crustacean and mollusc diseases, and EU reference laboratory on fish- and crustacean diseases. In addition, the section has a large project portfolio and currently employs 27 people with a background in molecular biology, immunology/vaccinology, diagnostics, virology, bacteriology, epidemiology and laboratory techniques. You will be working together with fish health experts, experts on diagnostic methods and genome sequencing from several partner institutes in Denmark and Europe. 

We invite you to help us on our mission to survey and promote health of fish and shellfish, with special focus on sustainable aquaculture.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The selected candidate will be working with validation and implementation of a microfluidics chip for diagnosis of salmonid fish pathogens. The work entails validation of the methodology towards an innovation application. Specifically, you will be working with optimizing our diagnostic methods and routines based on a Biomark technologies chip (previously called fluidigm), including the chip’s analytical validation and diagnostic testing, using samples from experimental facilities and from the field (including fish tissue and eDNA samples). 

Finally, you will be responsible for taking the tool to a further stage where it could be implemented in routine diagnostic screenings. 

You will also take part in the new EU partnership on Animal Health and Welfare, and thus collaborate with other researchers within EU.

Your primary tasks will be:

• Optimization of a microfluidics based high throughput qPCR chip for diagnostic test of fish pathogens and other relevant targets
• Analytical validation of the microfluidic tool, and comparisons with standard diagnostic
• Testing of the chip using samples from experimental facilities and from the field, towards a diagnostic validation
• Be part of research projects where the microfluidic based qPCR technology is used
• As part of the AH&W partnership, you will be involved in the development of tools to be used in the diagnosis and monitoring of complex diseases (co-infections and multifactorial diseases)
• Dissemination of research results in scientific fora and journals, and communication to farmers and field veterinarians on the use of the chip

You will also be expected to contribute to

• Research networking and project coordination activities (national and international)
• Teaching activities at all levels (bachelor, master, PhD)
• The sections tasks and responsibilities as NRL and EURL
• Training of colleagues on the methodology

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) within one of the following fields: Molecular biology, Biotechnology, Biology, Immunology, Virology or Veterinary or Animal Science.

In addition, we will prefer candidates that can demonstrate one or more of the following:

• A good national and international network and ability to work in trans-disciplinary research projects.
• Experience with development and validation of diagnostic tools 
• Highly skilled in qPCR, preferably with experience using the microfluidic-based qPCR (Biomark system for high-throughput genomics)
• Experience with eDNA/eRNA
• Experience with immunoassays
• Experience in data analysis from high-throughput qPCR data.
• Knowledge and insights in salmonid diseases farmed in RAS systems

Personal skills

• Curiosity and high motivation for aquaculture research.
• Ability to take personal responsibility for getting things done
• Be creative and interested in exploring new technology and in adopting new ways of working and solving problems
• Accuracy and patience for data collection and management.
• Analytical skills and some experience in statistical analysis.
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English. 
• Ability to work in a team and to assist colleagues, as well as being able to work independently
• Personal suitability and motivation for the position will be emphasized.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. You will be encouraged and assisted in fundraising for continuation of your research.

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 2 years. Starting date is 1/4-2024 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information
May be obtained from Head of Section Britt Bang Jensen, tel: +45 9351 8948, email: [email protected] or Senior scientist Argelia Cuenca, tel: +45 93511287, e-mail: [email protected].

You can read more about The Section for Fish and Shellfish diseases at https://www.aqua.dtu.dk/english/about/organization/scientific_sections/section-for-fish-and-shellfish-diseases

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark .

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 25 February 2024 (23:59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

About the section
The Section for Fish and Shellfish Diseases conducts research on host-pathogen interactions, disease prophylaxis and pathogen characterization. The section gives research-based advice and is at the forefront on the development of diagnostic tools and preventive measures of diseases in fish, bivalves and crustaceans. 

Furthermore, the section is appointed as the European Union reference laboratory for Fish and Crustacean Diseases and as the reference laboratory for the fish disease viral haemorrhagic septicaemia (VHS) for the World Organisation for Animal Health.

About DTU Aqua
DTU Aqua – National Institute of Aquatic Resources – works for well-functioning oceans, rivers, and lakes where biodiversity can thrive. Our research, advisory service, and education contribute to the development of a sustainable blue bioeconomy, robust aquatic ecosystems, and reduced effects of climate change. We have a large national and international network and cooperate with research partners, public authorities, industry, and NGOs. We have state-of-the-art research facilities and Denmark’s largest research vessel. The Institute has 350 employees, of whom one-third are scientific staff. More than 30 nationalities are represented at the Institute, and we support an equal gender distribution. We are located in Lyngby, Hirtshals, Nykøbing Mors, and Silkeborg and have regular activities in Greenland. Learn more on aqua.dtu.dk

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.

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Job Info

• Job Identification 3133
• Job Category VIP B
• Posting Date 02/07/2024, 01:23 AM
• Apply Before 02/25/2024, 05:59 PM
• Locations Kreditorkontoret, Kgs. Lyngby, 2800, DK

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