Postdoc in analysis of Environmental DNA - DTU Aqua

Are you interested in analysis of environmental DNA for detection of invasive pink salmon in Iceland? Then this postdoctoral position at National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU Aqua) is for you.
The application of Environmental DNA “eDNA” for aquatic biodiversity assessment and fisheries management is progressing rapidly. If you see yourself at the forefront of this development and are interested in robotic solutions for eDNA collection as well as practical implementation of eDNA for the detection and management of invasive fish species, this job may be interesting for you.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The main task of the position is to develop and apply environmental eDNA as a precise early detection method to prevent the spread of invasive pink salmon in Iceland, who constitute a threat to native salmonids that have very high economic and cultural value for the society. Autonomous eDNA analysis offers a sensitive, cost-effective early warning system for pink salmon detection. The project also aims to map local biodiversity and ecosystem effects via eDNA metabarcoding. This initiative is part of the EU-funded PHAROS project to restore and enhance aquatic biodiversity in the Atlantic and Arctic regions.

You will be responsible for:

• Setting up and testing a robotic system for eDNA based monitoring of pink salmon in Iceland.
• Generating and analyzing qPCR/dPCR and metabarcoding data for Icelandic rivers/estuaries.
• Collaborating with Icelandic partners to implement eDNA in pink salmon management.
• Publishing the methods and data in peer reviewed scientific journals.
• Communicating with the scientific community, stakeholders and the general public.
• Participating in PHAROS project meetings, communication and collective output.

The primary workplace will be at DTU Aqua, Silkeborg Campus, where you will join an enthusiastic team of researchers, postdocs, PhD, and Master’s students who focus on all aspects of cutting-edge aquatic eDNA analysis. Thus, you are expected to spend a significant amount of time doing field work in Iceland.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). It will be an advantage if you have previous experience in (e)DNA analysis.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 2 years. The start date is 1 February 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor Einar Eg Nielsen [email protected], +4540210231 who is the “demo” leader and coordinator for the genetics group at DTU Aqua.

You can read more about You can read more about DTU Aqua at www.aqua.dtu.dk and about the genetics group at https://www.aqua.dtu.dk/english/research/population_genetics

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 6 December 2024 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications
• Description of relevant experience and qualifications regarding eDNA analysis
• Letter(s) of recommendation/contact information from previous employer

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

The National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU Aqua) conducts research, provides advice, educates at university level and contributes to innovation in sustainable exploitation and management of aquatic resources. We investigate the biology and population ecology of aquatic organisms, aquatic physical and chemical processes and ecosystem structure and dynamics, taking account of all relevant natural and anthropogenic drivers. The project will primarily be carried out at the Section for Marine Living Resources’ population genetics group consisting of around 15 people and situated in Silkeborg, Denmark. The group works broadly on genetic and genomic analyses aimed at conservation and management of aquatic species, and has a strong focus on the development of methods eDNA based monitoring of aquatic resources and biodiversity with the aim is to be able to determine the presence/absence and relative abundance of keystone, rare or invasive species in both freshwater and marine habitats. We are pursuing opportunities for developing high resolution, high throughput and automated systems and pipelines that will allow these tools to be employed broadly for routine monitoring.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.

Adresse:

Vejlsøvej 39
8600 Silkeborg