Laboratory technician analysis of environmental DNA

Laboratory technician for the analysis of environmental DNA

The Laboratory of Ecosystem and Landscape Evolution at the ETH Zurich is looking for candidates to fill a technican position focused on the analyses of environmental DNA (eDNA) samples. The Laboratory of Ecosystem and Landscape Evolution is an international research team with diverse scientific expertise and backgrounds, connected by the goal to understand biodiversity. We study the mechanisms that shape biodiversity patterns across spatial and temporal scales - in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and their response to global changes.

To make these connections, we collect data through biological monitoring, environmental DNA methods, remote sensing, and field sampling, and use these data to answer questions with statistical and process-based models of biological diversity. We are further committed to translating basic science findings and novel technologies into environmental applications, and thus engage in finding solutions to solve major environmental challenges.

Anthropogenic activities cause disruption to natural ecosystems, which can in turn impact the functioning of human societies. To ensure long-term societal well being, the monitoring of living organisms is becoming increasingly critical in a variety of domains and this can be achieved with eDNA, allowing fast and cost-effective tracking of multiple species’ occupancy at multiple sites. In our laboratory, we investigatethe natural and anthropogenic drivers ofbiodiversity, which wemonitorusing environmental DNA (eDNA) or sedimentary DNA (seda

DNA). Our overall goal is tobetter understand ecosystem dynamics and landscape evolution and find solution to halt the erosion of biodiversity.

We are looking for a motivated and skilledlaboratorytechnician to support a wide range of molecular laboratory tasks, primarily focusing on the processing of eDNA samples. This includes DNA extraction in a clean laboratory setting, PCR, and library preparation for high-throughput sequencing. The job also involves supporting the maintenance and organization of the eDNA biobank,preparing and managing sampling kits for field campaigns, andassistingothersin performing eDNA extractions and library preparations.

You will be involved in many projects,contributing to impactful ecological researchto halt biodiversity lossand measure actions favorable to nature.

In this position, you will be primarily responsible for the extraction of DNA fromenvironmental, especially water and sediment,samplescollectedin the context of many international collaborations, working independently in a clean laboratory environment. You willmanagethe entire workflow, from equipment preparation before the sampling,sample reception to librarypreparation,andorganization ofsequencing. Additionally, you will manage laboratory consumables,maintain the cleanliness and organization of the lab, and contribute to the development and standardization of protocols.

As a Laboratory Technician, your responsibilities will include:

• Performing established molecular biology procedures, including environmental DNA (eDNA) or sedimentary DNA (seda
  
  DNA) extraction, PCR, and library preparation
• Managing the workflow of environmental samples from reception to sequencing
• Helping in maintaining and organizing both the clean laboratory and general laboratory spaces
• Managing laboratory logistics, including inventory, consumable orders, and equipment upkeep
• Ensuring high standards of cleanliness and contamination control in the clean lab
• Supporting the maintenance and organization of the eDNA biobank
• Ordering, organizing, preparing and assembling sampling kits for field campaigns
• Training others in the application of the eDNA extraction and library preparation protocols
• Working independently while following established procedures and safety guidelines

It is a fixed-term position associated with a project, whose duration is four years.

We are looking for a well-organized, precise, and motivated technician with proven experience in molecular biology. You are able to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment and bring a strong sense of responsibility to laboratory tasks.

Essential qualifications and attributes:

• Completed training as a laboratory technician or equivalent education in molecular biology or a related field
• Hands-on experience with molecular techniques, including DNA extraction (preferably from environmental samples), PCR, and library preparation
• Good laboratory practice
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to follow established protocols with precision and consistency
• Capacity for independent problem-solving and task management
• Team-oriented mindset with excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic research environment
• Fluencyin English (spoken and written)
• Openness to travel to conduct DNA extractions in other laboratories and institutions and train…