An exciting research position is available in a very innovative, applied research initiative embedded in Dublin City University – Ireland’s University of Enterprise. The technology-led FPC@DCU engineers next-generation life-science technologies for the benefit of people and societies in partnership with the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology (IPT) in Germany. Common fields of application are in-vitro (“Point-of-Care”) diagnostics, pharma, life-science research, agrifood and environmental monitoring. FPC@DCU therefore operates at the challenging crossroads of microsystems engineering and the life sciences. The current project aims at demonstrating a microfluidic solution towards applications in Next Generation Sequencing. Based on its extensive expertise and background IP in microfluidics, the FPC@DCU will develop an affordable, automated system, which delivers reproducible, high-quality outputs while minimising reagent use.
Candidate Role
The role involves assisting in the development of microfluidics-based systems towards high technology readiness levels (TRLs) within FPC@DCU. In this role you will have access to competent technical, infrastructural and administrative assistance and the opportunity to evolve a multi-facetted skillset in an environment where you closely partner with world-class Irish and international companies and research organisations. Further career opportunities will arise with the success of the FPC. You will also assist the business development and project management teams of the FPC in their interactions with industry, academia and funding agencies.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Reporting to the project Principal Investigator, technical duties will include but will not be limited to:
- Conduct a specified programme of research within the NGS PREP Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund Project under the supervision of the project PI.
- Microfabrication, assembly and testing of microfluidic prototypes.
- Assist development and testing of the appropriate device and sample preparation protocols required to facilitate microfluidic technology application.
- Assist development and testing of the appropriate sample preparation protocols required to facilitate microfluidic technology application.
- Assist, quality control and testing of developed microfluidic products
- Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research in which they are engaged, as directed by, with the Assistance of and under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.
Qualifications, Skills and Experience Required:
Applicants must hold a primary degree (NFQ Level 8 and above) in a relevant discipline and should have at least have 1 year of relevant job experience. Under overall guidance of a researcher, you should have a proven track record of working in a team as well as well-defined experience handling select aspects independently.
Familiarity with the operations of a scientific laboratory environment especially in the next generation sequencing and microfluidic areas would be highly desirable. A self-starting attitude, good interpersonal skills and high technical expertise are a prerequisite. The successful candidate can convincingly demonstrate the background, experience, willingness and capability to assist transfer of bioanalytical methods to microfluidics-based technologies, e.g. for manufacture and testing of devices that enable handling and decentralised sample-to-answer testing of biological sample.
Mandatory Training
The post holder will be required to undertake the following mandatory compliance training: Orientation, Health and Safety and Intellectual Property and Data Protection training. Other training may need to be undertaken when required.
Salary: €22,609 – 35,218 (IUA scale)
*Appointment will be commensurate with qualifications and experience will be made on the appropriate point of the salary scale, in line with current Government pay policy.
Closing date: 3rd March 2020
Application Procedure:
Informal enquiries to: Dr. Rohit Mishra – rohit.mishra@dcu.ie
Please do not send applications to this email address, instead apply as described below.
Application forms are available from the DCU Current Vacancies (open Competitions) website at http://www.dcu.ie/vacancies/current.shtml and also from the Human Resources Department, Dublin City University, Dublin 9. Tel:+353 (01) 7005149.
Applications should be submitted by e-mail with your completed application form to hr.applications@dcu.ie or by post to the Human Resources Department, Dublin City University, DCU Glasnevin Campus, Dublin 9, D09W6Y4.
Please clearly state the role that you are applying for in your application and email subject line: Job Ref #RF1333 Research Assistant in manufacture, testing and validation of biomedical micro-devices.
Dublin City University is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to promoting gender equality reflected in its attainment of the Athena SWAN Bronze Award. Information on a range of university policies aimed at creating a supportive and flexible work environment are available at www4.dcu.ie/policies/policy-starter-packs.shtml.