Research Engineer in Ancient DNA analysis

Department of Archaeology and Classical Studies, SciLifeLab Ancient DNA unit, Centre for Palaeogenetics, Stockholm University

The Department of Archaeology and Classical Studies is the largest archaeological research environment in Sweden and consists of seven sections: Archaeology, Archaeological Research Laboratory, Stockholm Numismatic Institute, Osteoarchaeological Research Laboratory, Classical Archaeology and Ancient History, Cultural Evolution and Centre for Palaeogenetics. Both the research and the education at the Department comprise different areas and time periods.

Analysis of ancient DNA is a powerful tool to help us understand the past, but require specialized laboratories and methods. The purpose of the SciLifeLab Ancient DNA unit is to support research by providing state-of-the art analysis as a service to a broad scientific community including researchers in archaeology, anthropology, genetics, evolution, biodiversity and more, as well as to e.g. museum staff and contract archaeologists. The interest for the unit’s services is large and increasing both within Sweden and internationally.

The SciLifeLab Ancient DNA unit is a part of the vibrant scientific community at the Centre for Palaeogenetics (CPG), which is a collaboration between Stockholm University and the Swedish Museum of Natural History. The SciLifelab Ancient DNA unit operates as a team which includes staff at the department of Organismal Biology at Uppsala University.

Main responsibilities
The main task of the position consists of evaluating and planning projects, sampling and extracting DNA from the remains of humans and animals, and preparation of DNA sequencing libraries and performing DNA library quality controls for sequencing. Analysis of ancient plant, sediment and other types of samples also occurs. The tasks also include discussing, implementing, develop and evaluate new laboratory procedures, and following relevant scientific literature, attending research meetings and conferences, laboratory management and maintenance, project documentation and writing of reports and scientific publications. The laboratory work is performed in dedicated Ancient DNA clean-room laboratories, as well as in other pre- and post-PCR laboratories.

Qualification requirements
We are looking for you with an MSc degree, or equivalent, in genetics or archaeology with extensive experience of laboratory-based research in genomics and genetics, especially with ancient DNA, or a person with a PhD in genetics or archaeology with focus on ancient DNA. Experience with work in clean-room laboratories and with core facility research is also meriting. Excellent command of English in writing and speech is required. Personal qualities such as being service-minded, working well in a team, having excellent ability to plan, organize and document your work and taking responsibility is very important.

Terms of employment
This is a full-time, indefinite-term position with a six-month trial period. Salaries at Stockholm University are determined individually; therefore, please indicate your requested salary. Start date immediately.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact
Further information about the position can be obtained from Head of the Ancient DNA unit, Magnus Lundgren, telephone: +46 18 471 26 96, [email protected] .