Predoctoral researcher position in the area of microbial ecology, within the research project “Toxic cyanobacterial blooms: detection and removal of microcystins in large water bodies”
IMDEA Water is a non-profit research Institute, promoted by the Regional Government of Madrid, to carry out research in water technologies. This Institute is part of the IMDEA network, the institutional framework that combines support from both the public and private sectors and harmonizes research with market demand, strengthening the presence of the private sector in science.
It complies with the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.
A position for a predoctoral researcher is available to work in the research project "Toxic cyanobacterial blooms: detection and removal of microcystins in large water bodies", under the supervision of Dr. María Ángeles Lezcano Vega and Dr. Pablo Urrutia Cordero.
The candidate will investigate the role of aquatic microbial communities involved in the onset and decline of toxic cyanobacterial blooms in freshwater bodies (e.g., reservoirs and wetlands). The candidate will also investigate the metabolic capacity of microorganisms associated with toxic cyanobacterial blooms for the control and removal of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins from water. The selected person will perform field and laboratory experiments, including genetic (e.g., metagenomics and qPCR) and chemical analyses of samples.
The candidate will develop the PhD thesis in the Hydrology and Water Resources Management program offered by the Universities of Alcalá and Rey Juan Carlos (Madrid). During the completion of the PhD thesis, the candidate will be involved in the (1) design and performance of samplings, (2) design and performance of laboratory experiments, (3) sample analysis, (4) data analysis, (5) writing scientific publications, and (6) communication of results at conferences, scientific dissemination events, and stakeholders (e.g., companies and public administration).
The candidates should meet the following main qualifications:
- To have a degree, or a graduate with M.S., in Biology, Environmental Sciences and/or a similar discipline. EQF Level 7 (MECES 3)
- Hold a M.S. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Aquatic Ecology, and/or a similar discipline.
- Excellent oral and written English.
- Driving license.
In addition to the main qualifications described above, experience in any of the following areas will be considered as an additional merit:
- Ability for analytical work in the laboratory.
- Experience with microorganism cultures.
- Experience in genetics and bioinformatics.
- Experience in field sampling work.
- Scientific writing skills.
Candidates must present the following information:
- Curriculum Vitae (in English). The CV must be attached using the IMDEA Water template. CVs in any other format will not be accepted.
- Letter of interest (in English) summarizing previous experience and interests on the project (1 page).
- Curriculum vitae
- Suitability of the candidate´s training and experience to the institute´s research lines and open position
- Those candidates with the highest score will be called for an online interview to evaluate their knowledge and attitudes related to the open position
- Employment contract full-time: 37.5 hours/week
- Annual gross salary: 21.500 €
- Incorporation date: September, 2024
IMDEA Water Foundation. Avda. Punto Com 2, 28805 Alcalá de Henares (Spain)
- Cover letter (pdf)
Final decisions will be personally communicated by e-mail to all candidates