Lab Coordinator (m/f/d) 60-100% on wastewater-based infectious disease surveillance

At Eawag the Wastewater Monitoring Laboratory actively monitors wastewater for the presence of respiratory pathogens through detection of RNA. Our work has led to time series data on SARS-CoV-2, Influenza, and RSV RNA concentrations in wastewater from wastewater treatment plants across Switzerland, translation of the data into wastewater-derived effective reproduction numbers, and time series data on SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern from wastewater. We also develop and apply methods for detection, quantification, and sequencing of other infectious disease agents and antimicrobial resistance in wastewater. Data obtained are integrated into publicly available online dashboards (https://wise.ethz.ch/). With our work we aim to advance environmental surveillance of wastewater to inform trajectory of diseases in Switzerland. 

The advertised position contains coordinating the activities of a small team of lab analysts, technicians, and interns in the Wastewater Monitoring Laboratory. Core responsibilities include training of students and apprentices, scheduling, and supervising the team in the collection and analysis of wastewater-derived data, providing logistical support for sample and data collection, and ensuring timely delivery of data. Additional tasks involve optimizing laboratory processes, implementing quality management measures, and ensuring adherence to protocols. The position is for 1 year, with possibility of prolongation dependent on funding. We offer a very dynamic and collaborative team, which profits from state-of-the-art infrastructure and support. Project intended start date is as soon as possible, dependent on availability of the candidate. 

If you are excited about this position, and you hold a Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (EFZ) as Laboratory Technician specialising in biology and/or you hold an Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education in Biomedical Analytics (HF) or a B.Sc. or M.Sc. in microbiology, biology, environmental sciences, environmental engineering, public health or a related field you are invited to apply. Prior experience working in a biological or microbiological laboratory is necessary, and prior experience coordinating a small team in the laboratory is beneficial. Experience in virology or molecular methods, including RNA/DNA extraction and qPCR/dPCR is also beneficial. The working language is English and German.

Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. Please include a letter of motivation (1 page max.) explaining why you think you fit this position well, a CV, and the names and contact information of two references.

Eawag is a modern employer and offers an excellent working environment where staff can contribute their strengths, experience and ways of thinking. We promote gender equality and are committed to staff diversity and inclusion. The compatibility of career and family is of central importance to us. For more information about Eawag and our work conditions please consult www.eawag.ch and www.eawag.ch/en/aboutus/working/employment.

For further information, please contact Dr Christoph Ort or Dr Tim Julian by e-mail.

We look forward to receiving your application. Please send it through this webpage, any other way of applying will not be considered. A click on the button below will take you directly to the application form.