VACANCY NOTICE PU/TS/08-21

The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), established in 1983, is an international, intergovernmental organisation conceived as a Centre of excellence for research, training and technology transfer to industry in the field of biotechnology to promote sustainable global development. The Centre conducts innovative research in life sciences and strengthens the research capability of its over 60 Member States through training, funding programs and advisory services. Located in Trieste (Italy), New Delhi (India) and Cape Town (South Africa), and in collaboration with over 40Affiliated Centres worldwide, the three ICGEB Components provide a scientific and educational environment of the highest international standards. Further information is available at https://www.icgeb.org

The ICGEB invites applications for the post of Research Technician within the Project
“COVID-19: Community Access Diagnostics laboratory networks” (the Project)

BACKGROUND:
The Project builds on the results of a pilot action implemented by the ICGEB https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-xSlulkN-4. The primary outcome, to which the present Project will contribute, is the improvement of the diagnostic and surveillance capacity for COVID-19 in the participating countries in Africa through the transfer of scientific knowledge, expertise and technologies, by partnering with reference diagnostics laboratories, and also by actively involving community diagnostic labs, which may have very different conditions and needs. Another outcome will be the consolidation and widening of a network of diagnostic laboratories in Africa, also at community level, that will be in a position to react more steadily and with tailored diagnostic resources available in case of either another resurgence of the pandemic or similar medical challenges.

POST TITLE: Research Technician
DUTY STATION: Trieste, Italy
DATE REQUIRED: As soon as possible
TYPE OF CONTRACT: Project appointment entirely funded by External Funds, ICGEB P. Reference BMG/21/024
DURATION: Initial period of three months, with possibility of one year further extensions subject to satisfactory performance and project duration.
LEVEL: GS-1/GS-2 (UN salary scale) depending on experience and qualifications

DUTIES: Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Group Leaders of Molecular Virology, Molecular Pathology, Cardiovascular Biology (depending on the technology) and in coordination with Fundraising, Technology Transfer and Innovation Officer, the incumbent will be requested to perform the following duties related to the Project:

a) support in the development and optimization of protocols related to the technologies that will be validated during the course of the project;
b) work with specimens from SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals within a biosafety level 3 laboratory;c) collection of data and data analysis;
d) liaise with project partners for implementation of (clinical) protocols in coordination with the scientific team;
e) liaise with the scientific team and FTI office for clinical study documents preparation including authorization material;
f) participate in field training activities for technical staff in the areas of interest of the project;
g) perform other Project related duties as may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS: 
Essential: Diploma. Previous experience in molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA manipulation, RNA extraction, reverse-transcription and real-time PCR.
Assets: University degree in Medical, Biotechnology related fields or other relevant disciplines. Experience in international organizations and/or in international scientific research consortia.

COMPETENCIES: Proactive attitude and motivation to work in team, results orientation, high commitment, accuracy and respect of deadlines, good interpersonal and communication skills, organizational and planning abilities, analysis and reporting.
Understanding of diagnostics and surveillance would be an asset.

LANGUAGES: English mandatory; some knowledge of French would be an asset.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 15 September 2021
Candidates should submit their full CV by completing the ICGEB’s Personal History Form available online at: https://www.icgeb.org/about-us/work-with-us/, together with a cover letter outlining motivation for application and full contact details of three referees.
ICGEB is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

Applications should be addressed via email to HR & Personnel Unit, recruitment.ts@icgeb.org, quoting reference PU/TS/08-21.