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stillingsbetegnelse:
PhD scholarship in Antibiotic Resistance among Mastitis Causing Bacteria

jobbeskrivelse:

Mastitis is the leading cause of antibiotic usage and economical loss in the dairy production worldwide. Many of the major bacterial causes of mastitis, such as Staphylococcus aureus, readily become resistant to antibiotics, resulting in persistent noncurable intramammary infection leading to culling of infected animals. Also, antibiotic resistance in production animals poses a concern to human health.

At Centre for Diagnostics DTU there is a strong research focus on bacterial infections in production animals and associated antibiotic resistance dynamics. Moreover, Centre for Diagnostics DTU is a partner in the newly established Danish Udder Health Centre (DUHC). DUHC is a multidisciplinary research environment bridging the interface between life and social sciences within mastitis.

The PhD project aims to identify resistance arising by the use of antibiotics for treatment of mastitis in dairy cattle. The study includes identification of resistance genes, abstractJV_description of resistance mechanisms, possible co-selection, and relations between the usage of antibiotics and the abundance of antibiotic resistance genes. Moreover, the study will include the development and validation of methods for surveillance and detection of resistance genes using a high-capacity quantitative PCR platform. The project will focus on the major bacterial causes of mastitis. The RT-qPCR will be compared to classical MIC analyses of the bacteria in order to both validate the RT-qPCR and bridge the interface between genotypes and phenotypes of the mastitis causing bacteria. All in all, the PhD project therefore aims to both increase knowledge on antibiotic resistance in mastitis causing bacteria and to develop snap tests to diagnose this.

The research facilities at the Centre for Diagnostics DTU are excellent using state-of-the art equipment and validated methods within production animal diagnostics. The centre holds a unique MALDI-TOF database of specters of mastitis bacteria. Also, the centre performs state of the art RT-qPCR diagnostics, as well as classical MIC analyses. Thereby, accurate and detailed diagnosis and resistance patterns can be performed. Moreover, the centre collaborates with DTU Bioengineering on advanced research within antibiotic resistance. The PhD will therefore become part of a unique academic environment within bacterial diagnostics and research. The PhD also includes a 3-6 months stay at one of the international collaborators within DUHC.

Responsibilities and tasks


We are looking for a highly motivated individual with excellent problem solving and communication skills. This individual will work as part of a team of scientists. As such the chosen candidate must have the ability to work both independently and in an interdisciplinary team.

The candidate will have the following responsibilities:

• Perform research within bacterial genetics and antibiotic resistance profiles.
• Develop and validate diagnostic techniques e.g. within RT-qPCR.
• Follow research plans to achieve major and minor goals in a timely manner.
• Disseminate his/her research and help support activities associated with the Centre for Diagnostics DTU as well as DUCH.
• The PhD candidate should be able to start as soon as possible in 2019.

Qualifications

Candidates should have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

Applicants for this position must demonstrate the following:

• A Masters level degree in veterinary medicine, biomedicine, bioengineering or in related topics that have an extensive focus on bacteria, antibiotic resistance, diagnostic analyses and genetics.
• Have prior experience of independent research (e.g. Masters and/or Bachelors research project).
• Have prior experience of data analysis and laboratory work.
• A high degree of personal motivation.
• Problem solving and communication skills.
• English (oral and written) at an excellent level.
• A willingness to work abroad during the PhD.

Approval and Enrolment

The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see the DTU PhD Guide. http://www.dtu.dk/english/Education/PhD/Rules/PhDguide

Assessment


The assessment of the applicants will be made by a team with supervisors and nearest colleagues.

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms


The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here. http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths

Further information


Further information may be obtained from Lærke Boy Astrup, tel.: +45 93510851.

You can read more about Centre for Diagnostics DTU at www.diagnostik.dtu.dk ApplicationPlease submit your online application no later than 4 April 2019 (local time). Apply online at www.career.dtu.dk. http://www.diagnostik.dtu.dk/ http://www.career.dtu.dk/

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
• Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and Excel spreadsheet here) http://www.dtu.dk/english/Education/phd/Applicant/Pre_acceptance-1-

Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications and enclosures received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and scientific advice. Our staff of 6,000 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society, and our 11,200 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government and public agencies.


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jobCategoriesCodes_0: http://data.europa.eu/esco/isco/C2310

abstractJV_contact_0: Please apply using one of the specified channels

positionTypeCode: directhire

contractTypeCodes_0: fulltime

Arbejdsgiver Navn: Danmarks Tekniske Universitet

source: DK-STAR