The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has a research position available for a science graduate to investigate the presence of toxigenic bacteria in Irish shellfish.
Eligible candidates must have a first or upper-second class BSc Honours degree in a biological subject, with a strong background in microbiology and/or molecularbiology to apply for this MSc research position where they will study how seafood-borne pathogens can cause gastroenteritis.
Additional experience through relevant postgraduate and/or laboratory experience would be advantageous, according to the listing, which outlined that bioinformatic expertise would be especially beneficial.
A driving licence would be desirable for travel for collection of shellfish samples.
Address knowledge gap
Funded by this Department under its 2019 research call, this #OneHealth project aims to address this gap in knowledge and to advance understanding of the toxigenic mechanisms of these bacteria for the benefit of shellfish industries as well as human well-being, according to the job listing.
The successful candidate will be based within the Molecular Pathogenesis Research Group of Dr Aoife Boyd at National University of Ireland, Galway, in collaboration with Dr Fiona Walsh at Maynooth University.
Responsibilities
“In the initial stages, the student will work in partnership with the team researchers to detect Vibrio in Irish shellfish through culture and genetic approaches.”
“Following collection of these bacteria and analysis of the data, the MSc student will detect, by PCR, known virulence genes of Vibrio isolates.”
“Through genome sequencing, the goal is to identify the genes for production of the life-threatening neurotoxin Tetrodotoxin, which has just recently been found in Vibrio. Genomic sequencing and data analysis will be performed in collaboration with Dr Walsh at Maynooth University.”
Payment
The position is 2 years (24 months) in duration, with an annual stipend of €18,000 and payment of fees.
How to apply
Deadline for applications is September 17th, 2020.
Applications should include a CV, contact details of 3 referees and a cover letter explaining why you are a suitable candidate for these positions.
Applications should be sent to: [email protected]. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview in September, for a start date in October – Further information can be found here.
