OPPORTUNITY: Postdoctoral position in Iceland

The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute in Iceland (MFRI) is seeking an innovative and skilled researcher or postdoctoral fellow for a one-year, full-time position focused on molecular detection of harmful algal blooms (HABs). The goal is to enhance detection techniques for toxin-producing algae. The candidate's role will involve leveraging recent advancements in molecular genetics to develop and refine detection methods suited to Icelandic ecosystems and take part in ocean expedition or other fieldwork to collect required data for the project. This project will run in partnership with MATÍS, a Food and Biotech R&D nonprofit company in Iceland.

The candidate will join a team that works on a variety of projects involving monitoring and research in Iceland, such as oceanography, ecosystem and various other environmental research, biodiversity. The successful candidate will join the MFRI at an exciting time, as the institute has recently created a new vision for the next five years, that includes strengthening research on climate change and ecology. The institute also emphasizes a positive and healthy working environment and culture. If the candidate has an interest in continuing working for the MFRI, the institute provides support in exploring such possibilities and in applying for competitive funding.

Overview of tasks and responsibilities:

• Development and implementation of molecular probes for HABs.
• Cell isolation and algal culturing.
• Identification of microalgae by microscopy and DNA.
• Amplicon sequencing and analysis of amplicon sequence data.
• Participation in field work.
• Assessment of environmental impact of HABs in Iceland.
• Dissemination of results, e.g. in scientific journals, reports and/or in presentations.

The skills we’re looking for:

• Graduate degree in biology or related fields is a requirement.
• PhD in genomics, phycology, marine biology, ecology, microbiology, biochemistry or similar is favored.
• Experience in working with phytoplankton.
• Experience in molecular biology and lab work.
• Ambition, initiative, and a positive attitude.
• Excellent ability to work independently and in a team.
• Fluency in spoken and written English, with oral and written communication skills.

Training in specific methodologies and other support will be provided by team members from MFRI and MATÍS.

Application requirements

The application should include:

• Detailed CV.
• Certificates of education (BSc, MSc, PhD and/or other).
• A letter of interest detailing the reason for application and justification for the applicant´s qualifications for the job.
• The names of two referees along with their contact information.

Further information

Salary is according to the current collective wage and salary agreement between the Icelandic Union of natural scientists (FÍN) and Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs. Salary rate for postdoc starts at approximately 5000 € per month.

There can be a moderate relocation support and Iceland offers a tax reduction on the salary of specialist from abroad for 3 years.

Living in Iceland offers many appealing qualities. Iceland is known for its beautiful nature, clean and safe environment and good opportunities for outdoor activities. Iceland has a creative arts scene, and vibrant music scene. Iceland is a socially progressive country, with high gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.

The position will be based in Hafnarfjörður, in the capital region of Iceland.

The deadline for application is by the end 29 December 2024.

Please send your application to our human resources team, email [email protected]. Applicants will be informed about the appointment when a decision has been made.

Please note:

• Applications are valid for six months after application deadline.
• The MFRI reserves the right to reject all applications.

Appointments to positions at the MFRI are made in consideration of the Equal Right Policy of the MFRI.

For further information please contact

Dr. Sara Harðardóttir, phytoplankton specialist MFRI

About the MFRI

The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute (MFRI) is a governmental research institute in Iceland under the auspices of the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. The institute employs around 190 staff, operates two research vessels and has nine branch offices around the country, including an experimental research station. The role of the MFRI is to conduct monitoring and research to expand our understanding of marine and freshwater ecosystems, and to provide various science-based advice to ministries, governmental institutes and others to ensure the sustainable use of freshwater and marine resources in Iceland. A wide variety of research activities take place at the institute, including diverse research on freshwater- and marine ecosystems, aquaculture, and multiple projects in the field of fisheries science. Internal, national and international collaborations are an important part of the operation of the institute. The MFRI is highly regarded in the scientific community and is therefore a valuable research partner, active at an international level with a strong infrastructure and high-quality standards. The MFRI is an appealing workplace with a progressive human resources policy to strengthen the institute’s competitiveness and an effective equality policy.