Research Assistant for testing Campylobacter-interventions in the production of boilers

Would you like to be involved in testing new ways of preventing and reducing one of the most important food-borne diseases in the production of broilers?

We are seeking a research assistant to join our research group for Research Group for Foodborne Pathogens and Epidemiology at the National Food Institute (DTU FOOD) to work on two research projects. The position is for a one-year employment at the National Food Institute.

Responsibilities and qualifications
Your main task will be to assist in execution and success of two research projects: SafeChicken – which investigates new methods for reducing Campylobacter in the production of free-range broilers, and CampTau – which investigates the degree of transfer of Campylobacter on chicken carcasses in the slaughterhouse processing line. You will collect and analyze various samples from different experimental setups for Campylobacter and other relevant bacteria within these two projects. You will be going to farms and slaughterhouses to set up experiments with colleagues, collect and process samples in the laboratory. The laboratory work will include bacteriological tests for culturing, quantification and verification of bacteria, measuring physiological parameters of the broilers, preparing samples for whole-genome sequencing, and set-up and execution of disinfection experiments in the laboratory and in the field. The projects will help find methods that can reduce the presence of Campylobacter in broilers and create better models for predicting the risk of infections in humans. You will be involved in the planning and implementation of experimental work in the field (farm and slaughterhouse) and in the laboratory. You will also be involved in planning the study designs, data-analysis, reviewing literature, reporting, and dissemination of results in collaboration with colleagues.

We expect you to have a scientific education in the field of microbiology. You may have a background as a food engineer, food scientist, microbiologist, biotechnologist, biologist, veterinarian or similar and preferably with practical experience in experimental work with microorganisms. You must be able to work both independently and in collaboration with other researchers and our industry partners, as well as master English in both speech and writing. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

The ideal candidate will have:

• A relevant master's degree in life sciences with a microbiological focus.
• Experience with experimental microbiological work.
• Some experience with microbiological detection methods.
• Solid abilities in planning and structuring as well as the ability to be solution-oriented.
• Some experience with bioinformatics is considered an advantage.

As a formal qualification, you must have a master’s degree in engineering or equivalent.

We offer
We can offer an inspiring workplace in the Research Group for Foodborne Pathogens and Epidemiology at DTU Food where we have a helpful and welcoming environment with colleagues who are willing to help, guide or discuss ideas or problems. The position is offered in collaboration with Research Group for Food Microbiology and Hygiene that has a well-equipped laboratory facility with the opportunity to work with relevant technologies such as MALDI-TOF and WGS and more.

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.

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

The period of employment is 1 year. The starting date will be 1 January 2023 or as soon as possible according to mutual agreement. The position is a full-time position.

The position is located at DTU Food, Kemitorvet Building 204, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby. The primary workplace will be at DTU in Lyngby.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Postdoc Brian Lassen, [email protected], +45 93511976 or Researcher Nao Takeuchi-Storm, [email protected], +45 93511681.

You can read more about the Research Group for Foodborne Pathogens and Epidemiology at https://www.food.dtu.dk/english/research/foodborne-pathogens-and-epidemiology and Research Group for Food Microbiology and Hygiene at www.food.dtu.dk/english/Research/Food-Microbiology-and-Hygiene ,  

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

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

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc)

Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis in December 2022.

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.

The Research Group for Foodborne Pathogens and Epidemiology analyses and interprets data on antimicrobial- resistance and -consumption as well as foodborne pathogens. The group also conducts risk assessments and develops epidemiological models, monitoring/intervention strategies, and decision-making tools.

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 13,400 students and 5,800 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.