Research Assistant in the Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health (Appointment for 12 months with possibility of extension) [Ref. C/R/345/09]

Project

Small Players Reveal Crucial Ecological Mystery: Parasites as Indicators of Population Ecology of Endangered Indo-Pacific Finless Porpoises in HK Waters

The Project aims to identify the parasites and their related diseases in deceased Indo-Pacific Finless Porpoises (NP) in Hong Kong waters by morphological identification, molecular characterisation, virtopsy and conventional necropsy collectively for the first time worldwide.  It will address the incidence of parasites and related diseases upon postmortem findings.  Results will be beneficial to the scientific community by providing a better understanding on the impact of parasites on the health status of NP and their long-term population ecology as a whole.

Duties

Assist in the overall project logistics arrangements, virtopsy and conventional necropsy; carry out laboratory research works; assist in cetacean stranding response programme such as logistics and record-keeping; liaise and coordinate with other team members, departments and collaborators; collect, review and analyse data of sampled parasites (e.g. molecular analysis, phylogenetic analysis, statistical analysis etc.); assist in writing manuscript and organising research activities; and perform any other duties as assigned.

Requirements

A Master’s/Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary/Biomedical Science/Molecular Biology/Ecology/ Animal Science or a related discipline, and no more than a total of 6 years of service at the University.  Experience in running laboratory experiments and conducting experimental research using molecular techniques (e.g. DNA/RNA extractions, qPCR, sequencing and analyzing molecular data, etc.) would be an advantage.

Good written and spoken English and Chinese; ability to work in various conditions; ability to work independently in mature manner and maintain a calm demeanor in potentially stressful conditions; careful handling animal carcasses; good record keeping, time management and organizational skills; attention to details; willingness to learn and acquire new skills; and possession of the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment.  Occasional night duties or work on weekends/holidays may be required.

Salary and Conditions of Service

Salary offered will be highly competitive, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  Fringe benefits include leave, medical and dental consultations at the campus clinic.

Information and Application

Further information on the post and the University is available at http://www.cityu.edu.hk, or from the Human Resources Office, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong [Email : hrojob@cityu.edu.hk/Fax : 2788 1154 or 3442 0311]. 

To apply, please submit an online application. Applications will be reviewed on a continuing basis until the position is filled.  Applications will receive full consideration and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.  The University’s privacy policy is available on the homepage.