United Arab Emirates University Looking for Research Assistant (Mangrove microbiome and role in C budget) at United Arab Emirates Full Time

Job Description
The Department of Biology at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is seeking applications for a full-time research assistant. The successful candidate will be offered a two year position. The candidate will be involved in the project investigating microbial communities of newly planted and native mangroves using culture-dependent and independent approaches. The goal of the project is to screen and explore halophilic microorganisms with plant growth promotion potential from mangrove sediments as well as plant roots, and further to investigate the impact of planted and natural mangrove on soil microbial communities and carbon balance in the soil sediments along depth gradients. Next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques focussing on whole-genome-sequencing/metabarcoding/metagenomics analyses, coupled with ecological experimental approaches will be used in the project.
Minimum Qualification
Highly motivated candidate, with Masters in Biology/Bioinformatic/Microbiology/Biotechnology, strong academic track record, and relevant experience in microbial ecology (microbiome diversity and functional assessment using molecular tools specifically metabarcoding and/or metagenomics) are specially encouraged to apply.
Preferred Qualification
The selected candidate is expected to: 1) Conduct field work (soil and root collection) in arid environment 2) Process samples for biochemical and molecular lab work 3) Analyse the genomic dataset using bioinformatic and statistical software 4) Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and 4) Assist in supervising/mentoring undergraduate students. To apply the position applicant must include: 1) A cover letter including a motivation statement for the position 2) CV (summarizing education, positions and academic work, scientific publications and other relevant experience) 3) Copies of educational certificates and/or transcripts of records 4) List of publications and academic work that the applicant wishes to be considered by the evaluating committee and 4) Names and contact details of three references (name, affiliation, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number the references will be contacted if necessary therefore letters of recommendation are not required for the initial application). The salary will be approximately 3500 AED per month. There may be opportunities to continue as PhD student in the department providing IELTS score >6.5.