Laboratory Manager Codicum Project

About the CODICUM Project
The CODICUM project, funded by the European Research Council, is an ambitious, multi-disciplinary initiative exploring the rich world of medieval manuscript fragments in Northern Europe (c. 1000-1500). This project uses a combination of traditional manuscript studies, cutting-edge scientific analysis, and innovative digital techniques to reconstruct lost books, map knowledge networks, and reveal the hidden histories of this fascinating era. A core element of this work is the application of biomolecular methods to parchment and other manuscript components.

Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled person to support the CODICUM project's bio-codicology research stream, particularly with the large-scale processing and analysis of parchment samples. The successful candidate will work within an interdisciplinary research team and will be responsible for:

• Parchment Sample Management:
  • Maintaining a meticulous system for tracking thousands of parchment samples using barcoding and the online database tool AirTable.
  • Ensuring the accurate linking of barcode identifiers to sample information and metadata, while working with both paper and digital records.
  • Receiving, organizing, and preparing parchment samples for biomolecular analysis, adhering to strict protocols.
• Automated Laboratory Operations:
  • Setting up, operating, and maintaining liquid handling robots, particularly the Hamilton DreamPrep, for high-throughput sample preparation, MALDI plate spotting, and other tasks relating to the analysis of peptides from 50,000 samples using established DreamPrep protocols.
  • Adapting existing and developing new OT2 protocols for initial protein analysis, where the DreamPrep protocols are not applicable.
  • Operating a tube-labelling robot, which can also dispense liquids into tubes, to manage sample barcoding and preparation linked to the AirTable database.
  • Performing high-throughput ZooMS (peptide mass fingerprinting) analysis using MALDI-TOF MS and related instrumentation
  • Generating high quality DNA and preparing libraries using established DreamPrep protocols for approximately 500 samples. (Note: While the current budget does not allow for a larger sample set, experience with a smaller sample will be essential for all further work)
  • Assisting in the preparation of samples for additional analyses, including lipid extraction and isotopic analysis.
  • Assisting in method optimization and implementation to improve bio molecular data quality.
• Data Management:
  • Ensuring all data generated from biological analyses are properly documented, stored and prepared for further analysis using appropriate standards for interoperability and long-term preservation.
  • Collaborating with bioinformaticians and other team members to analyse and interpret proteomic and genomic data.
  • Contributing to data organization, data input and quality control within the team.
• General Lab Support
  • Supporting the lab management by ordering consumables, ensuring the functioning of lab equipment and maintenance of quality control procedures.

Essential Qualifications

• A BSc or MSc degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, archaeology, or related fields).
• Mid level skills in the Python programming language
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory workflows for DNA or protein analysis, including DNA library preparation for next-generation sequencing, and protein extraction for mass spectrometry
• Strong organizational skills with a high level of accuracy, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team environment.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken).

Desirable Qualifications

• A PhD
• Hands-on experience with mass spectrometry instrumentation, preferably MALDI-TOF MS.
• Practical experience in using barcodes and related tracking systems for biological samples.
• Experience in running liquid handling robots for automated sample preparation.
• Experience in developing protocols for liquid handling robots (e.g., Hamilton DreamPrep and OT2).
• Experience in using and managing AirTable or similar online databases.
• Experience in basic bioinformatics and analysis of high-throughput sequencing data.
• Knowledge of data management best practices and FAIR principles.
• Interest and experience in working with historical material.
• Experience in applying proteomic methods to analyse complex mixtures, such as stains, use wear or adhesives.
• Experience working with highly degraded ancient samples.

We Offer

• A full-time position with a fixed-term contract for 2 years, offering stability and an opportunity to make a significant contribution to the field.
• A competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• A creative, dynamic, and international research environment.
• Opportunities to participate in scientific publications and presentations.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including a new Bruker timsTOF fleX/MALDI-2 mass spectrometer and automated liquid handling systems.

Terms of salary and employment
Your employment will be at GLOBE, University of Copenhagen. The position is fuld-time (37 hours per week) with a fixed-term position for 2 years and is open for appointment as soon as possible.

Employment will be in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) if the candidate has background as a MSc.

Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated.

Application
Your application should be in English and include:

• Letter of application addressing the requirements (max. one page).
• Curriculum Vitae
• A certified/signed copy of certificate(s) of education
  Please submit your application by clicking on “Apply Now” below. Only online applications will be accepted.

Application Deadline Deadline for application: 13 April 2025, 23:59 CET
Questions
For further information regarding the position please contact Professor Matthew Collins Matthew@sund.ku.dk

We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Appointment will be based on merit alone.

Københavns Universitet giver sine knap 10.000 medarbejdere muligheder for at udnytte deres talent fuldt ud i et ambitiøst, uformelt miljø. Vi sikrer traditionsrige og moderne rammer om uddannelser og fri forskning på højt internationalt niveau. Vi søger svar og løsninger på fælles problemer og gør ny viden tilgængelig og nyttig for andre.

Info
Ansøgningsfrist: 13-04-2025

Ansættelsesdato: 15-05-2025

Arbejdstid: Fuldtid

Afdeling/Sted: Globe Institute