Research engineer in ancient DNA analysis
Department of Archaeology and Classical Studies
Closing date: 20 December 2022.
The Department of Archaeology and Classical Studies is the largest archaeological research environment in Sweden consists of seven sections: Archaeology, Archaeological Research Laboratory, Stockholm Numismatic Institute, Osteoarchaeological Research Laboratory, Classical Archaeology and Ancient History, Centre for the Study of 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 understand the past, but require specialized laboratories and methods. The purpose of the SciLifeLab Ancient DNA unit is to further 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 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 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 sampling and extracting DNA from the remains of humans and animals, as well as from plant material, sediment and other types of samples, and preparing DNA sequencing libraries and performing DNA library quality controls. The tasks also include developing, implementing and evaluating methods for e.g. DNA extraction, library preparation, target capture and metabarcoding. The work includes following relevant scientific literature and attending research meetings and conferences, assisting with planning of projects, lab management and maintenance, project documentation and report writing. The laboratory work is performed in dedicated ancient DNA cleanroom laboratories, as well as in other pre- and post-PCR laboratories.
Qualification requirements
We are looking a person with an MSc, or equivalent, in genetics or archaeology with extensive experience with 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 cleanroom 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-oriented, able to plan and organize your work well, working well in a team, and taking responsibility is very important.
Terms of employment
This is a full-time, indefinite-term position. Salaries at Stockholm University are determined individually; therefore, please indicate your requested salary. Start date as soon as possible. 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 the Head of the Ancient DNA unit, Magnus Lundgren, telephone: +46 18 471 26 96, magnus.lundgren@scilifelab.se.
Union representatives
Ingrid Lander (Saco-S), telephone: +46 708 16 26 64, saco@saco.su.se, Alejandra Pizarro Carrasco (Fackförbundet ST/Lärarförbundet), telephone: +46 8 16 34 89, alejandra@st.su.se, and seko@seko.su.se (SEKO).
Application
Apply for the position through Stockholm University’s recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.
Application should include:
– Cover letter
– CV
The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.
You are welcome to apply!
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