Lab technician – molecular biology

The InnoRenew CoE is seeking a well-qualified and highly motivated individual to work in the Engineered Living Materials (ELM) laboratory (https://innorenew.eu/laboratory/engineered-living-materials-laboratory/).

In the ELM laboratory, we work at the interface of microbiology, materials science and chemistry. In the future, the plan is to expand toward the use of mammalian cell cultures. Currently, most of us work on ARCHI-SKIN, an ERC CoG project of Assoc. Prof. Anna Sandak (https://archiskinproject.eu/). The project aims to comprehensively evaluate bio-inspired strategies for fungal biofilms’ chemistry-structure properties to create a solid basis for the advancement of future living engineering materials’ surfaces.

We are searching for a motivated, self-initiative and independent candidate who can help us make our lab even better and more productive.

Key Responsibilities:

• Daily maintenance of laboratory equipment and devices.
• Preparation of microbiological media, buffers and other materials.
• Coordination of purchasing, storing and inventory of laboratory materials and chemicals.
• Participation in the execution of laboratory practice and research projects for students.
• Execution of experimental procedures (given the protocol) – knowing how to work sterile is of great importance.
• Regular interactions and communications with laboratory head dr Karen Butina Ogorelec.

Necessary qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Experience with molecular biology (DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis etc).
• Aseptic work for cell cultures.
• Proficiency in English, both written and verbal.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Good communication skills, and the ability to work in a team.

Desired qualifications:

• Master’s degree (MSc) or additional certifications in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, or Genetic Engineering.
• Experience with Good Laboratory Practice,
• Basic knowledge of bioinformatics,
• Proficiency in Slovenian is an extra asset.

What we offer

This position will be within the newly established InnoRenew CoE, which is focused on renewable materials use in sustainable built environments. The InnoRenew CoE was established as a flagship project funded by the European Commission and the Republic of Slovenia.

• 1-year contract with an option for renewal. The first three months of the employment will be considered a probationary period. During this time, the performance and suitability for the role will be assessed to determine if the employment relationship should continue.
• Competitive salary with possible performance-based raises
• Opportunity to work on a prestigious ERC project

Employment opportunities, admissions policies, activities, services, and the facilities of the InnoRenew CoE do not exclude any person based on race, color, age, sex, gender, religion, national origin, or disability. In processing your application, the GDPR will be respected and your information will not be shared outside of the relevant staff at the InnoRenew CoE. By submitting your application, you agree that the data you provide be reviewed by InnoRenew CoE.

How to apply

Interested applicants should send:

• Curriculum vitae
• 1-page motivation letter
• Certificate of the education degree

All materials should be in English and submitted in PDF format no later than March 25, 2025. Please add “ELM lab technician – molecular biology” to the subject of the application.

 For any additional information, you can contact us by email: coe@innorenew.eu.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For further information about the research topic, please contact Associate Professor Anna Sandak (anna.sandak@innorenew.eu).

The expected start date is April/May 2025.

The InnoRenew CoE reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, extend the application period, and consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.