Research Assistant in Applied Biology

To support and conduct interdisciplinary research combining biology and mathematics, focusing on microbial growth dynamics, nutrient-limiting models, chemostat experiments, biochemical assays, and quantitative data analysis.

1. Assemble and operate chemostat systems to study bacterial growth under nutrient-limited conditions.
2. Prepare culture media and establish limiting concentration ranges for nutrients.
3. Perform inoculation, monitoring, and steady-state experiments to quantify microbial kinetics.
4. Collect, analyse, and model data on bacterial growth rates, nutrient concentrations, and cell density.
5. Conduct assays related to phospholipid pathways, glucose absorption (OGTT), and electrical impedance in biological samples.
6. Support epidemiological data analysis by collecting, organizing, and interpreting past epidemic datasets.
7. Draft research reports, contribute to publications, and present findings at scientific meetings.

No prior work experience required; however, completion of relevant laboratory coursework or training is preferred

1. Basic Laboratory Skills
   Familiarity with fundamental microbiology techniques such as aseptic handling, simple microbial culturing, and maintaining a clean lab environment (gained through coursework or practical labs).
2. Laboratory Equipment (Introductory Level)
   Basic understanding or exposure to common laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, incubators, spectrophotometers, biosafety cabinets, and autoclaves.
3. Sample Handling & Data Entry
   Ability to carefully prepare, label, and store samples, and perform basic data entry using tools like Microsoft Excel.
4. Molecular Biology (Foundational Knowledge)
   Basic knowledge of techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis (theoretical or practical exposure through university labs).
5. Analytical & Learning Skills
   Willingness to learn data analysis, interpretation, and basic scientific modeling with guidance.
6. Soft Skills
   Good communication skills, willingness to learn, ability to work in a team, and attention to detail. Capable of following instructions, maintaining organized lab records, and contributing to simple reports or presentations.

Undergraduate student in Biotechnology, Biology, or a related field