Phd: Towards risk assessment of occupational exposure to fungal species

The National Research Centre for the Working Environment invites applications for a PhD-study together with Aalborg University. We offer an exciting opportunity to conduct research in occupational exposure to fungi and related inflammatory related health effects.

Occupational exposure to fungi and inflammation
Within the last decade, we have obtained much more knowledge about the composition of fungal species in different working environments. However, the health impact associated with inhalation of fungi in occupational settings is not clear. Exposure to fungi may induce inflammation, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) production playing a pivotal role in the immune response. In this Phd project the candidate has to characterize workers’ exposure in terms of the composition of fungal species and germinability of spores and their ability to induce ROS production. This will be studied in vitro in human cell lines as well as in blood samples from exposed workers.

The Microbiology group at NFA is well established with good and well-equipped laboratory facilities. The group works with research on occupational exposure to microorganisms, potential associated health effects, and how to reduce workers exposure. In the group, we are senior researchers, post docs, PhD-students, scientific assistants and a laboratory technician. As part of the research group, we expect you also to contribute to the overall activities and social and professional development of the group.

The new PhD student
Candidates should possess a master degree, preferably in microbiology, immunology, or environmental science. However, candidates with diverse backgrounds with extended knowledge in microbiology are also welcome.

The successful candidate must have a solid background in:

• Microbiology – especially mycology and including hands-on laboratory experience
• Immunology
• RNA Extraction/Analysis
• Occupational hygiene
• Data handling and processing in a systematic and organized manner
• Statistical programming in R.

Additionally it would be an advantage if our new student:

• Has worked with live-cell imaging and analysis using oCelloScope
• Thrives in multidisciplinary collaboration and is motivated by personal and team accomplishments
• Holds a driver's license
• Has an interest in improving the working environment in Denmark.

Since field measurements are part of the job, you can expect long working days and possibly accommodation close to the workplaces where you perform exposure measurements (a couple of days every other month).

Salary and terms
The PhD student will have the daily work at NFA in Copenhagen, but be enrolled at Aalborg university, participate in courses in Aalborg, and if relevant also some laboratory work in Aalborg.

The job is a 3-year full-time position. We would like you to start December 1st, 2024 or at first opportunity. You will be employed as PhD student according to the collective agreement for academic staff between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) and according to the job specifications for scientific staff employed at government research institutes.
Questions and application

In case of further questions, you are welcome to contact senior scientist Anne Mette Madsen by mail or phone ([email protected]; +45 3916 5242) or head of research Nicklas Raun Jacobsen ([email protected]; +45 3916 5279).

If you have any questions about salary or employment terms, you are welcome to contact Rikke Dahl Ledertoug from the Ministry of Employment's HR department on ([email protected]; +45 7220 5257).

All interested applicants, regardless of age, gender, disability, religion or ethnicity, are encouraged to apply for the position.

Send an electronic version of your application no later than Sunday October 27th 2024. Your application should include a cover letter, CV (with publication list) and examination certificates. Applications can be submitted in Danish or English.

Department:
Lersø Parkallé 105, København Ø

Lokation: Det Nationale Forskningscenter for Arbejdsmiljø, København