research engineer

The National Health Laboratory is recruiting a Research Engineer (MSc or PhD in molecular biology, food science or biotechnologies) for its Food Surveillance Department, with a full-time (40 hrs/week), permanent contract, starting January 1, 2022.

Job description

As a scientist you will perform the following duties :

Research and Development:

• Development of new methods, in collaboration with the technical manager of the analytical domain
• Management of the development project (planning, execution, validation, implementation)
• Execution of routine validation and implementation work
• Training of routine technicians on developed methods
• Lead the accreditation process of the developed methods
• Organization, management and execution of research work in the analytical domain
  • Identification of research topics for routine use
  • Identification, writing and publication of research topics for MSc trainees, recruitment of trainees
  • Supervision of MSc trainees
• Feasibility studies for research projects
• Participation in European collaborations of the laboratory
• Publication of scientific results

Technical quality:

• Maintenance of accredited methods
  • Planning and execution of periodic review of performance criteria
  • Trend analysis, proposal of corrective actions
• Establishment of inventories of anomalies and malfunctions
• Carrying out bench audits
• Supervision of the analytical equipment of the technical domain:
  • Management of maintenance, troubleshooting, contact with suppliers
  • Drafting and analysis of specifications and drafting of technical documents
  • Qualification and commissioning of instruments
• Participate in the management of the LIMS

Profile

The candidate must have

• A MSc or PhD in molecular biology, food sciences or a related field
• Knowledge of the following techniques:
  • Microbiological techniques
  • Real-time PCR (qualitative and quantitative), electrophoresis
  • Biotechnology
  • ELISA
  • Enzymatic techniques
• Experience with daily maintenance and troubleshooting of analytical instruments (PCR, HPLC, etc.).
• Proven experience in the field of food science
• Experience working in an ISO 17025:2017 accredited laboratory with proven experience in implementing and/or setting up quality/accreditation processes.
• Very good computer skills (mastery of the Office pack).
• Organizational skills, ability to manage people, flexibility, ability to react to urgent analysis requests, and team spirit.
• Fluency in French and English (spoken and written) is mandatory.

Assets

• Knowledge in HPLC is considered an advantage
• Experience with mold identification on agar and under light microscope
• Experience in the analyses of foodborne virus
• Experience with a LIMS
• Proven track record in publishing (peer review, international journals)
• Knowledge of Luxembourgish and/or German