Research Assistant (Mangrove Microbiome)

Job description / Role

Research Assistant (Mangrove Microbiome and Role in C Budget)

The Department of Biology at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is seeking applications for a full-time research assistant. The successful candidate will be offered a two year position. The candidate will be involved in the project investigating microbial communities of newly planted and native mangroves using culture-dependent and independent approaches. The goal of the project is to screen and explore halophilic microorganisms with plant growth promotion potential from mangrove sediments as well as plant roots, and further to investigate the impact of planted and natural mangrove on soil microbial communities and carbon balance in the soil sediments along depth gradients. Next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques focussing on whole-genome-sequencing/metabarcoding/metagenomics analyses, coupled with ecological experimental approaches will be used in the project.

Minimum Qualification
Highly motivated candidate, with Masters in Biology/Bioinformatic/Microbiology/Biotechnology, strong academic track record, and relevant experience in microbial ecology (microbiome diversity and functional assessment using molecular tools specifically metabarcoding and/or metagenomics) are specially encouraged to apply.

Requirements

The selected candidate is expected to:
- Conduct field work (soil and root collection) in arid environment;
- Process samples for biochemical and molecular lab work;
- Analyse the genomic dataset using bioinformatic and statistical software;
- Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals; and
- Assist in supervising/mentoring undergraduate students.

Expected Skills/Rank/Experience:
Candidates with experience in eDNA extraction, NGS library preparation and bioinformatic as well as statistical analyses (using R) of big genomic dataset (metabarcoding/metagenomics) is highly preferred. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and ability to work well in collaborative environment with skills in networking are highly advantageous.

Evaluation for the position be based on education, experience as well as motivation in terms of the qualification requirements mentioned in the advertisement.

About the Company

Founded in 1976 by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAEU is a comprehensive, research-intensive university enrolling about 14,000 Emirati and international students. As the UAE’s flagship university, UAEU offers a full range of accredited, high-quality graduate and undergraduate programs through nine Colleges: Business and Economics; Education; Engineering; Food and Agriculture; Humanities and Social Sciences; IT; Law; Medicine and Health Sciences; and Science. With a distinguished international faculty, state-of-the art new campus, and full range of student support services, UAEU offers a living-learning environment that is unmatched in the UAE.

As a research-intensive university of international stature, UAEU works with its partners in industry to provide research solutions to challenges faced by the nation, the region, and the world. The University has established research centers of strategic importance to the country and the region which are advancing knowledge in critical areas ranging from water resources to cancer treatments. UAEU is currently ranked the number one research university in the GCC, number two in the Arab World, and #370 globally.

UAEU’s academic programs have been developed in partnership with employers, so our graduates are in high demand. UAEU alumni hold key positions in industry, commerce, and government throughout the region. Our continuing investments in facilities, services, and staff ensure that UAEU will continue to serve as a model of innovation and excellence.