Institute of Parasitology
Lab Technician / Laborant*in 80 - 100 %
Start of employment 01.01.2025, temporaryThe Institute of Parasitology is affiliated to both the Vetsuisse and Medical Faculty. The Vector Entomology Group is one of the four research groups of the institute, engaging in experimental and descriptive research on various aspects of insects (vectors) that can transmit pathogens. Thus, we address questions of vector biology and behavior, vector capacity, molecular identification and novel approaches for control and monitoring. We are an international group of scientists (biologists, veterinarians) with a strong track record of extramural funding.
We offer a stimulating environment for research in the important field of vector entomology, with an outstanding research infrastructure. The employment is for 80-100 % per week and there is funding available for at least four years.
Your responsibilities
The technician will work on two international projects with partners in Belgium and The Netherlands. The goal of one project is to significantly decrease human and animal attractiveness to mosquitoes by lowering the attractive bacteria on the skin with lysins and consequently reduce pathogen transmission. Tasks of the team in Zürich include the volatile analysis of skin bacterial communities in vivo and in vitro and determining their role in the attraction of the volatiles to mosquitoes. The goal of the second project is to understand the microhabitat preferences of mosquitoes. Tasks of the team in Zürich include the filming of (infected) mosquitoes in different (micro)climate conditions. The projects will generate fundamental information on the behavior of mosquitoes and their ability to transmit pathogens.
One of the main tasks of the successful applicant will be to rear the mosquitoes needed for the behavioral experiments. In addition, the successful applicant will support a wide array of experiments, including several behavioral experiments which will be performed by video tracking. The role also involves supporting molecular experiments where tasks include culturing, identifying, quantifying bacteria.
One of the main tasks of the successful applicant will be to rear the mosquitoes needed for the behavioral experiments. In addition, the successful applicant will support a wide array of experiments, including several behavioral experiments which will be performed by video tracking. The role also involves supporting molecular experiments where tasks include culturing, identifying, quantifying bacteria.
Your profile
We are looking for a technician who can work in a molecular laboratory but is also interested in working with mosquitoes. Our mosquitoes are reared under tropical conditions in which the successful applicant will have to work for several hours a week. Experience with one or more of the following skills is a plus: insect (mosquito) rearing, behavioral experiments with insects, molecular analysis, video tracking and microbiology. The working language in our lab is English, and a strong command of English is essential. Knowledge of German, or willingness to learn, is an asset.
Information on your application
Please submit your documents (cover letter, CV, diplomas, certificates) in four separate PDF files. Please send your application before 21.10.2024.What we offer
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What we offer
Further information
Questions about the job
Prof. Niels Verhulst Head of Unit Vector Entomology 044 635 85 36
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/explore/work.html
Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/explore/work.html
Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
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