ICT Senior Network Engineer (Full-Time / Permanent)

ZSL is looking for a Technician to deliver the objectives of the NERC grant ‘Understanding links between microbial communities and emerging fungal pathogens in complex ecosystems’ awarded to TWJ Garner and MC Fisher (Imperial College). The post-holder will contribute to operational research into all of the three areas outlined: 

1. Organising the collection of chytrid isolates, their sequencing, passaging chytrid isolates and ensuring that they are cryopreserved
2. Contribute to the daily management of non-model amphibian species used for animal experiments
3. Characterising microbial associations in diverse field-settings and experiments, and quantitative PCR for chytrids: The post holder will provide the technical support to sequence microbiome and mycobiomes
4. Link chytrid virulence to microbial dynamics using in vitro and in vivo experimental manipulations:

Using in vivo and in vitro methods, the technician will manipulate the environmental microbial communities that assemble on amphibian hosts and that diverge on the basis of taxonomic diversity. The post-holder will work with the project PDRA and members of the research group in using experimental approaches to dissect ecological causality in infection, and to investigate promycotic approaches to mitigating the impact of infection by Bd.

• To work with collaborators worldwide to sample and characterise the microbial communities of amphibians.
• To provide appropriate DNA for resequencing, analysis of PacBio long-read data, and analysis of RNAseq.
• To profile bacterial and fungal communities using amplicon and shotgun sequencing.
• To undertake suitable wet-lab experiments as necessary.
• To work with animals, including regular husbandry and welfare checks.
• To work in collaboration with researchers at ZSL, Imperial College and with UK and international collaborators.
• To maintain accurate and complete records of all findings.
• To learn new skills and contribute to other projects.
• To undertake fieldwork as appropriate.

The successful candidate will ideally have:

• Proven relevant experience in amplicon, PacBio long-read and shotgun sequencing, also RNAseq.
• An understanding and willingness to undertake Home Office licensed procedures.
• Previous experience in animal work, preferrably with amphibians.
• Have strong communication and organisation skills, with the ability to engage a range of stakeholders.
• The ability to work effectively in a team and coordinate work across the two partner institutions (ZSL and Imperial College).

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button. If you have any queries regarding this position or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources at hr@zsl.org.

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) Sunday 22nd September 2019.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Dr Trent Garner on: trent.garner@ioz.ac.uk

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.