Research Assistant in Microbiology/Molecular Biology for Covid-19 Monitoring in Wastewater

Are you skilled in molecular biology techniques and have experience working in a research laboratory? Do you find the idea of measuring SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater to monitor covid-19 incidences in sewer catchments interesting? Would you like to be part of a dynamic research group at DTU Environment?

If this sounds like you, you have the opportunity to step into research for ½ year, with possibility of extension, in a collaboration between the Statens Serum Institut (SSI) and DTU Environment. Our main goal is to provide quality assurance and optimize methods for monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in residual waters. The working environment is collaborative, outcome-focused, and fun.

Responsibilities and qualifications

Key responsibilities include:

• Sample collection at wastewater treatment plants
• Optimization of sample treatment
• RNA extractions from a complex matrix
• Standard molecular techniques, including PCR and qPCR
• Data analysis and interpretation

Requirements and qualifications

• M.Sc. in microbial ecology, environmental microbiology or molecular biology, or related field
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral. Danish fluency is an asset, but not essential. 
• Diligent and detail oriented
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, work both independently and in teams.

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.

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 1/2 year, with the possibility of extension.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information
Can be obtained from Senior Researcher Marlene M. Jensen, mail: [email protected] , +45 45251551 and Professor Barth F. Smets, mail: [email protected], +45 45252230

You can read more about DTU Environment on www.env.dtu.dk

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 in one PDF file. The file must include:

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

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

Statens Serum Institut
For more than a century, SSI’s main task has been to secure the preparedness towards infectious diseases and congenital disorders. Today, SSI is an international research and service enterprise employing more than 700 people.

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 vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 12,900 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.