2 (post-doctoral) Research Fellow positions in

Molecular Epidemiology & Molecular Parasitology

The Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research (PNG IMR) is one of the leading biomedical research institutes in the developing world and for over 40 years has conducted research into the health problems of the people of Papua New Guinea. For its well established Vector Borne Disease Unit which conducts research in biomedical, clinical and public health aspects of malarial we are looking for

a) Molecular Epidemiologist

As part of a recent laboratory upgrade, the PNGIMR has recently established a new laboratory for PCR-typing of malarial infections in large field and intervention studies using a novel post–polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/ligase detection reaction–fluorescent microsphere assay (McNamara et al, 2006, Am. J. Trop Med. Hyg, 74, 413-421). The same technology will also be used to genotype malaria infections for markers of drug resistance and for typing of human genetic polymorphisms related to malaria resistance & susceptibility. In order to supervise the new laboratory and participate in the development of new assays we are currently looking for an enthusiastic post-doctoral research fellow with a solid base in molecular biology and an interest in the conduct of molecular epidemiology studies in tropical settings. Experience in malaria research and epidemiological data analysis would be advantageous but are not a prerequisite. The position is available immediately and a start date can be negotiated.

b) Molecular Parasitologist or Geneticist

In collaboration with our extensive group of renowned international collaborators, the PNGIMR molecular parasitology unit is conducting research into the basic biology and genetic diversity of P. falciparum and P. vivax as well as human host genetic adaptations to malarial infections. Of particular interest to the unit are the study of interaction of human red blood cell polymorphisms and parasite invasion by P. falciparum and P. vivax and the genetics of susceptibility and resistance to severe malarial pathology. The unit has well established facilities for P. falciparum and recently P. vivax in-vitro culture as well as for studies of parasite and host genetics. In order to assist with the supervision of the unit and participate in our extensive ongoing research program, we are looking for either a molecular parasitologist or geneticist with prior expertise in malaria or human genetic research. The position may qualify for a training fellowship in genomic data analysis through the MalariaGEN Consortium. The position is available by September 2007, but a later start date may be negotiated.

Both positions require a willingness to engage with ongoing field studies and travel both domestically and internationally. The successful applicants will be expected to train & lead small team of laboratory technicians, MSc and BSc(honors) students and are encouraged to develop a research agenda in their respective fields. The positions will be offered at Research Fellow or Senior Research Fellow level depending on qualifications and experience. Remuneration will be in accordance with PNG public service salary scales and include a base salary and gratuity, free housing, school fee support, emergency health coverage and a leave fare to place of recruitment every 18 months. The positions may allow the holders to supplement their income through a limited amount of external grant funding or paid consultancies.

These positions offer the unique opportunity to conduct cutting edge research in a stimulating, collaborative environment and contribute towards alleviating the burden placed by malaria on people in Papua New Guinea and beyond.

For further information, job description and selection criteria, please contact Dr. Ivo Mueller, Head Vector Borne Disease Unit, PNG Institute of Medical Research, P.O. Box 60, Goroka EHP 441, Papua New Guinea. Tel. +675 852 2962, Fax +675 852 3289, email: pngimr_ivo@datec.net.pg.