Technician Grade 1 (Temporary)

Duration:

Temporary Externally Funded contract post, the indicative duration of which is 41 months, subject to contract.  A panel may be formed from which future similar vacancies may be filled; such a panel will remain active for a maximum period of 12 months.

Basic Function:

The technician will operate closely with the DNA sequencing platform Technologist and assist in DNA/RNA manipulation, sample preparation and operating the platform. The successful candidate will have a Level 6 qualification in genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or related discipline with past experience in working with DNA/RNA being essential and experience in working with DNA sequencing instruments being desirable.

Background:                     

APC Microbiome Ireland (APC) was formed in 2003 with funding from Science Foundation Ireland and in conjunction with key industry partners. It represents a seamless collaboration between the Teagasc Food Research Centre at Moorepark, UCC and other Irish research institutes. It is widely recognised that the gut microbiota plays an important role in human health and has become one of the most dynamic, complex and exciting areas of research in both food and pharmaceutical arenas.

Since 2003 the APC has established itself as one of the leading global centres in gut microbiota research. The APC has made several landmark discoveries and has published over 1000 research articles in peer-reviewed journals, generating many journal covers and associated editorials. The APC comprises over 150 individuals, from the scientific PIs (the APC Faculty) funded by the partner Institutions, the management team, and a dedicated group of research scientists, research assistants and postgraduates students.

The APC utilizes a number of Platform Technologies which support the core research programmes. The high throughput DNA sequencing centre at Teagasc, Moorepark represents is a particularly important example such a Platform Technology and contains an Illumina MiSeq, and Illumina NextSeq, Oxford Nanopore MinIon and GridIon and ION PGM and ION Proton sequencers.

The Vision 1 team, within which the appointed technician will work, is led by Prof Paul Cotter and has a long history of carrying out cutting-edge microbiota research. The Vision 1 DNA Sequencing team has been led for over 10 years by Dr Fiona Crispie, who has considerable knowledge relating to all aspects of microbiome sequencing.

• Work closely with the DNA sequencing platform Post-doctoral researchers and DNA Sequencing Technologist.

• Carry out quality control of DNA/RNA samples received.

• Prepare DNA/RNA samples for high throughput sequencing.

• Contribute to troubleshooting to optimize existing protocols/develop new protocols.

• Liaise with technical support in Sequencing Companies.

• Operation of a number of different high throughput DNA sequencing instruments (training provided).

• Contribute to the management of samples and reagents.

• To participate in APC Education and Public Engagement activities.

• To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service charter and action plan.

• To actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes.

* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive.  It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.

Essential

Desirable

Qualifications

• Candidates must have a Level 6 qualification in genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related discipline.

• A Level 7-8 qualification in genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology would be a distinct advantage.

Skills

• Research skills: experience of DNA/RNA purification and preparation for subsequent analysis

• Basic molecular biology skills including PCR

• Dissemination skills: scientific and technical writing skills.

• Proficient in relevant computer applications.

• Experience in working with DNA sequencing instruments

• Experience with respect to the use of real time PCR instruments, bio analysers and other instruments involved in the quality control of DNA/RNA samples 

• Proficiency in particular sequencing technologies

• Proven record of scientific communications.

• Aptitude for multidisciplinary approaches.

Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of the literature relating to high throughput sequencing technologies and their application

Behavioural Competencies

• Ability to work as part of a team, including consulting, collaborating and building relationships with key partners.

• Has the ability to problem solve and demonstrates a high level of attention to detail.

• Demonstrates positive approach to new challenges and dissemination of new tasks.

Eligibility

• For operational reasons, current serving permanent staff members of Teagasc cannot normally be considered for funded contract posts advertised through open public competition.

 Note:  The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.