Research Assistant
Nucleic Acid Diagnostics Research Laboratory (NADRL),
Microbiology, NUI Galway
Ref. No. NUIG 111-13
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time fixed term position
as a Research Assistant with the Nucleic Acid Diagnostics Research Laboratory (NADRL),
Microbiology at the National University of Ireland, Galway. This position is funded by SFI
TIDA and is available from 1st January 2014 to contract end date of 31st of December 2014.
The NADRL at NUI Galway has vast experience in the development of novel nucleic acid
diagnostics assays for detection and identification of bacteria and fungi. This has included
co-development of diagnostics assays with commercial partners including some of the
largest IVD companies on a global scale. NADRL core research activities include: Molecular
diagnostic target discovery: Nucleic acid based test design: and Integration of NUIG
technologies onto diagnostics platforms.
Job Description:
This project proposal will investigate the feasibility of combining NUI Galway proprietary
technologies to design and develop a multiparametric NAD assay technology for use in the
control of (Hospital Acquired Infections) (HAI).
Qualifications/ Essential Criteria
 Hold a first class honours BSc in Microbiology or a relevant discipline
 Have a minimum of 2 peer reviewed publications, as a lead author, in the area of
development and optimisation of diagnostics assays one of which must be in the field
of detecting human pathogens in high purity water systems
 Must have experience in molecular biology techniques
 Must have experience in multiparametric platforms such as Luminex
 Must have experience in the development of multiplex real-time PCR, optimisation
and validation of diagnostics assays
 Experience in the development and/or optimisation of sample preparation/nucleic
acid extraction methods
 Experience of culturing Class II human clinical pathogens (bacteria and fungi)
 Demonstrate excellent oral and written communication and organisational skills
 Strong collaborative skills are required to work as part of a highly interdisciplinary
team
 Experience in training and laboratory-based supervision of students and/or other
researchers in molecular diagnostics assay development
 Fluency in written and spoken English is essential
Desirable Criteria
 High level of IT skills: experience in use of relevant bioinformatics software and a
proficiency in the full Microsoft Office package and use of the Internet
 Good initiative, flexibility and good organisational skills
 Technical troubleshooting skills
 Report writing and presentation skills
 A knowledge of microorganisms associated with HAI’s
Salary: €21,850 – €22,506 per annum (public sector pay policy rules pertaining to new
entrants will apply)
Start date: Position is available from 1st January 2014
Further information on research and working at NUI Galway is available on Research at NUI
Galway
Further information about the NADRL is available at:
http://www.nuigalway.ie/microbiology/dr__thomas_barry.html and Informal enquiries
concerning the post may be made to Dr. Thomas Barry
To Apply:
Applications to include a covering letter, CV, and the contact details of three referees should
be sent, via e-mail (in word or PDF only) to Dr. Thomas Barry: thomas.barry@nuigalway.ie
Please put reference number NUIG 111-13 in subject line of e-mail application.
Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm on Friday 6th December.
Interviews will take place on the 12th of December 2013
National University of Ireland, Galway is an equal opportunity employer.