The position is funded by the Research & Innovation Foundation (RIF) and will start on September 2025, as part of the CLEAR project. The CLEAR project aims to improve food and water biosafety in Cyprus, by focusing on the detection, monitoring and control of waterborne and foodborne parasites, particularly Cryptosporidium sp. and Giardia duodenalis (C & G), in leafy greens and water resources, with the goal of safeguarding both public health and the environment. The project addresses major challenges in environmental health and disease prevention using One Health Concept, which is consistent with Cyprus's Smart Specialization Strategy (S3Cy-7.4.2). The overall goal is to improve food and water safety, through novel diagnostic technology and cross-sector collaboration to increase Cyprus' capability for parasite monitoring and prevention, while lowering health risks (diarrheal diseases) associated with contaminated food and water (foodborne and waterborne outbreaks).
Prof. Panagiotis Karanis, the project coordinator (PC) of the CLEAR project, is an internationally recognised expert in Parasitology. He is also Cyprus' National Representative (management committee) for 'One Health Drugs Against Parasitic Vector-Borne Diseases in Europe and beyond (OneHealthConcept), demonstrating his strong commitment to global health initiatives. His research profile is dedicated to developing diagnostic methods for controlling emerging, re-emerging, and neglected parasitic waterborne, food-borne, and vector-borne diseases. This includes the creation of diagnostic tools for such parasitic illnesses, as well as addressing climate and demographic changes. Prof. Karanis's commitment to engaging in worldwide interdisciplinary collaborations is a testament to his dedication to the 'One World – One Health' concept.
You can expect an interesting and challenging field of work as well as excellent working conditions in a dynamic and multinational team that works closely with national and international partners at universities and in industry.
The position will be based in Nicosia. This job is a fixed-term position for 24 months (2years).
Your tasks:
Experimental work & sample processing
- Conduct and participate in laboratory experiments, including genotyping and artificial contamination simulations.
- Plan, prepare, and process water and vegetable samples in close collaboration with the scientific team.
- Apply molecular biology techniques, including PCR, real-time PCR, LAMP, sequencing, and other diagnostic assays.
- Perform sensitivity and specificity testing of diagnostic protocols and contribute to assay validation studies.
Data generation & reporting
- Generate experimental data, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility.
- Support the implementation of field validation procedures.
- Prepare technical reports, contribute to scientific publications, and assist in the preparation of project deliverables.
Laboratory management & compliance
- Ensure smooth daily operation of the laboratory, including ordering consumables, inventory management, and equipment maintenance/repair requests.
- Conduct safety briefings and ensure compliance with European and Cypriot laboratory safety standards.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and adhere to quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures.
Collaboration & knowledge transfer
- Work closely with the Project Coordinator and Senior Scientists for experimental design, troubleshooting, and data interpretation.
- Train and supervise new employees, doctoral students, and visiting scientists in laboratory techniques and safety protocols.
- Participate in project meetings, workshops, and dissemination activities.
Your profile:
- MSc degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related life sciences discipline.
- Practical experience in microbiological laboratory work, with willingness to handle environmental samples (e.g., water, vegetables).
- Solid background in molecular biology methods, including DNA/RNA extraction and amplification.
- Excellent command of English (written and spoken); Greek language skills are an advantage.
- Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in MS Office and Office 365 applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, OneDrive, SharePoint, TeamSite).
Job-specific skills:
- Hands-on experience with real-time qPCR, conventional PCR, LAMP, and Western blotting.
- High level of accuracy, reliability, and commitment to laboratory work.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills, combined with flexibility in tasks and approaches.
- Proven coordination and organizational abilities, with capacity to manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
What we offer:
- Outstanding working conditions with access to state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure and resources.
- Opportunities for international collaboration and exchange at the highest scientific level.
- Attractive employment package, including competitive compensation aligned with qualifications and experience.
- Flexible working hours to accommodate personal and professional needs.
- Family-friendly environment that values diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being.
- Professional development opportunities, including training, workshops, and active participation in scientific meetings.
Information and Application
For a formal application, please submit your CV through our online recruitment system.
For further information regarding the position please contact:
Prof. Panagiotis Karanis: [email protected]
For any clarifications regarding the application procedure please contact the HR Department at 22841533 or 22841535.
Application deadline 30/09/2025
Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.