Research Assistant in Advanced Parasite Identification

Department of Animal Biosciences

We are seeking a candidate with experience working with Angiostrongylus cantonensis and karyotyping of Parascaris spp., as well as molecular biology. Experience with real-time PCR is considered an advantage.

About the Position

We are looking for someone who wishes to assist researchers and PhD students in several projects within the field of parasitology. The projects focus on parasite species identification using morphology and genetic markers. We offer a stimulating and creative working environment with a strong focus on both research and practical applicability, where you will have the opportunity to contribute to research with direct societal and scientific relevance in parasitology. You are also expected to participate in various research-related activities such as group meetings and seminars.

As a research assistant, you will:

• Collaborate with researchers to identify parasite species from various host organisms and intermediate hosts.
• Work with documentation related to species identification.
• Perform practical work in parasitology and molecular biology laboratories.
• Plan and prepare sequencing libraries for the Illumina sequencing platform.
• Contribute to the reporting and documentation of research results.

Your profile

We are looking for candidates who have:

• An undergraduate degree in biology or a related field.
• Documented experience working with the parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis.
• Knowledge and experience in designing real-time PCR assays for Angiostrongylus cantonensis or closely related parasites.
• Documented experience in karyotyping of Parascaris spp.
• Experience with MALDI-TOF.
• Good oral and written communication skills in English.

Meritorious qualifications:

• Proficiency in French, as we have an ongoing collaboration with a French research group.

About us

Department of Animal Biosciences (HBIO) is part of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences and is responsible for education, research and postgraduate studies in several basic and applied scientific areas. These areas include anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, toxicology, breeding and genetics, immunology, bacteriology, virology, parasitology, epizootology, comparative medicine, food safety and One Health. Our research covers everything from livestock, sports and companion animals to laboratory animals and wildlife. Researchers in the department work across the entire range from molecular mechanisms and microbiology to the overall structure, function and behaviour of animals and how these are affected by breeding, physical activity, care, production, stress, environmental factors and disease.  

More information about the department/department: https://www.slu.se/institutioner/husdjurens-biovetenskaper/

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/

Location:

Uppsala

Form of employment:

Fixed-term employment 3 months, with possibility of extension.

Scope:

100%

Start date:

September 1, 2026 or as agreed. 

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline June 1th, 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

The position is offered to the person who, after a qualitative overall assessment, is deemed to have the best conditions to carry out and develop current work tasks and contribute to the positive development of the business.

Union representatives:

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden. SLU has around 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.