Research Assistant
Nanobiophotonics and Imaging Research Group,
School of Physics
National University of Ireland
Ref. No. NUIG 23-14
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time fixed term position
as a Research Assistant with Nanobiophotonics and Imaging Research Group, School of
Physics at the National University of Ireland, Galway. This position is funded by Science
Foundation Ireland (SFI) and is available from 1st May to contract end date of 31st January,
2015.
Project Background
The focus of this laboratory is to investigate minimally invasive novel optical methods for
cancer detection and therapy using biophotonics applications and nanotechnology.
Novel optical methods will be investigated using endoscopic catheter based in vivo cellular
fluorescence imaging, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and Surface Enhanced
Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) and Imaging with novel bio-chemo-synthetic optical probes.
The project will use optical on-line real time imaging systems implementing
fluorescence/autofluorescence/diffuse reflectance with image processing software and
endomicroscopic approaches to develop an optical biopsy techniques to stage cancer. The
project will also develop nanophotonics approaches for protein and biomarker analysis for
sensing and tracking cancer cells. Ex-vivo methods in multiphoton confocal fluorescence
based cytology of biofluids combining the use of fluorescence life-time imaging to grade
cancer will also be explored. Some transmission electron microscopy of cells will also be
undertaken.
Further details about the Nanobiophotonics and Imaging Research Group may be found at:
www.nuigalway.ie/faculties_departmnets/physics/staff_pages/m_olivo
Job Description:
The successful candidate will assist in the development of in vitro assays to monitor the
uptake and efficacy of nanoparticles in cancer cell lines with particular focus on the chick
chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. The role also involves assisting in vivo efficacy
studies involving post-mortem tissue processing using both light microscopy and electron
microscopy techniques.
Qualifications and essential Skills
 B.Sc in Chemistry or a related discipline
 A strong background in cell and molecular biology
 Have obtained full certification and training necessary for animal based biological
research in accordance with Irish legislation
 Knowledge of tissue culture and use of animal models for biophotonics and
nanotechnology applications
 Knowledge and experience of the cell physiological biological applications of
nanoscale materials
 Knowledge of advanced light microscopy and some experience in electron
microscopy
 Excellent verbal and written communication (English Language) skills
Desirable skills and experience:
 M.Sc in Pharmacology or related discipline
 Evidence of scientific publication and dissemination of results at conferences
 Additional technical skills in histology and immuno chemistry
 Experience in Animal studies including CAM model
 Experience in surface characterization techniques
Employment permit restrictions apply for this category of post
Salary: € 23,181 – € 27,679 per annum (public sector pay policy rules pertaining to new
entrants will apply)
Start date: Position is available from 1st May, 2013
Further information on research and working at NUI Galway is available on Research at NUI
Galway.
For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie
Informal enquiries concerning the post may be made to Professor Malini Olivo at
malini.olivo@nuigalway.ie
To Apply:
Applications should be sent as a single file (in Word or PDF only) to Rebecca Nolan
rebecca.nolan@nuigalway.ie and include; a covering letter stating the reason and suitability
for applying for this specific position, a full curriculum vitae, and the names and contact
details of at least three but not more than five referees who can be contacted for confidential
references.
Please put reference number NUIG 23-14 in subject line of e-mail application.
Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm, 3rd March 2014
National University of Ireland, Galway is an equal opportunities employer.