Research Assistant in the Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health (Appointment for 12 months with possibility of extension) [Ref. C/R/430/09]

Project

Space and time matter: Long-term spatiotemporal distribution of sea turtle strandings and factors contributing to their morbidity and mortality in Hong Kong waters

The Project aims to identify the spatiotemporal pattern of morbidity and mortality of stranded sea turtles of different life stages across time. A citizen science mobile application will also be developed for the public to report opportunistic sea turtle sighting and stranding, which will provide additional prospective data for evaluating their spatiotemporal distributions.  Results will be beneficial to the scientific community and relevant stakeholders to implement effective management plan for the endangered sea turtles in Hong Kong waters, which will allow the use of sea turtles as sentinels of marine ecosystem health, working towards a 'One Ocean-One Health' ideal.

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 / Biology / Wildlife Ecology / Quantitative Ecology / Animal Science or any related disciplines, and no more than a total of 6 years of service at the University.  Prior experience in marine conservation, stranding works, laboratory works and mobile application would be an advantage.

Good written and spoken communication skills in English and / or Chinese (including visual presentations) with a variety of audience including technical staff, scientific researchers, and the general public; experience in publishing scientific research; ability to work in a diversified environment; ability to work independently in a mature manner and maintain a calm demeanor in potentially stressful conditions; careful handling animal carcasses; good record keeping, time management and organisational skills; attention to details; willingness to learn and acquire new skills; ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment and strict timelines are required.  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.