The Plant Section at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics is looking for a dedicated and proactive laboratory technician to support our plant-based research activities.
The Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at the innovative Universitetsbyen invites applications for a dedicated laboratory technician. Join our inclusive laboratory and contribute meaningfully as a core member of a research team, mentored by Professor Simona Radutoiu.
We are at the forefront of researching plant-bacterial symbiosis with the goal of unlocking the full potential of both plants and bacteria to foster sustainable and climate-friendly agricultural practices. Our research is funded by ambitious programs, and our team consists of dedicated scientists and students committed to advancing knowledge and achieving project goals efficiently. Our research focuses on understanding the intricate interactions between plants and bacterial communities is pivotal in current research and agricultural needs.
• Plant Research Project: Develop and execute independent research on whole plants, plant tissue and cells within our plant-bacterial symbiosis studies.
• Confocal Microscopy Expertise: Operate, maintain, and optimize studies using confocal microscopy systems for the research group
• Develop imaging protocols including plant tissue preservation for advanced imaging analyses.
• Analyze and process microscopy data using specialized software
• Train researchers and students in these techniques and advanced microscopy
• Collaborate with team members on imaging needs for various projects
• Keep detailed experimental records and contribute to research publications
• Troubleshoot and optimize protocols for plant-microbial studies including molecular studies involving well-known protocols for DNA, RNA and protein studies.
• Contribute to daily activities of the research group
This position is perfect for someone who enjoys both hands-on lab work and maintaining a well-functioning research environment. If you're passionate about science, enjoy working in a team, and are ready to take on a variety of tasks, we encourage you to apply!
Apply
We are at the forefront of researching plant-bacterial symbiosis with the goal of unlocking the full potential of both plants and bacteria to foster sustainable and climate-friendly agricultural practices. Our research is funded by ambitious programs, and our team consists of dedicated scientists and students committed to advancing knowledge and achieving project goals efficiently. Our research focuses on understanding the intricate interactions between plants and bacterial communities is pivotal in current research and agricultural needs.
Expected start date and duration of employment
This is a one–year position from 1st October 2025, or shortly thereafter, with the possibility of extension.
Your main responsibilities:
You will be involved in our cell biology research of plants and contribute to our research of plants and their interactions with microbes using detailed microscopy techniques and at different levels from entire plant to isolated plant cells.• Plant Research Project: Develop and execute independent research on whole plants, plant tissue and cells within our plant-bacterial symbiosis studies.
• Confocal Microscopy Expertise: Operate, maintain, and optimize studies using confocal microscopy systems for the research group
• Develop imaging protocols including plant tissue preservation for advanced imaging analyses.
• Analyze and process microscopy data using specialized software
• Train researchers and students in these techniques and advanced microscopy
• Collaborate with team members on imaging needs for various projects
• Keep detailed experimental records and contribute to research publications
• Troubleshoot and optimize protocols for plant-microbial studies including molecular studies involving well-known protocols for DNA, RNA and protein studies.
• Contribute to daily activities of the research group
What we expect from you:
Our ideal candidate:- Has completed a laboratory technician education (laborant in Danish)
- Has strong experience in molecular biology
- Has experience with plant research and plant tissue culture
- Has experience with microscopy
- Has experience with microscopy software and image analysis tools
- Can independently design and execute research projects that require care, attention to details and careful observations.
- Is curious, systematic, and thrives in a collaborative, international environment
- Wants to contribute to cutting-edge plant-bacterial interaction research
- Can handle complex tasks and maintains overview during periods of intense activities.
- Can assist with data entry and laboratory database maintenance
- Manage laboratory inventory, coordinate supply orders, and handle basic purchasing tasks
- Communicates effectively in English (working language of our group)
- Has a driving license (min. category B) – preferred
Who are we?
The Plant molecular biology section's activities focus on genetic, molecular and biochemical research in the model plant Lotus japonicus as well as several crop plants such as cassava, barley, maize and wheat.
The research seeks to elucidate and understand the mechanisms behind genetic control of signal transduction, cell differentiation, developmental processes, local adaptation and plant-microbe interactions. Key research areas include symbiotic nitrogen fixation, plant perception of microbial signaling molecules, susceptibility to pathogens and colonization by symbiotic and endophytic bacteria/fungi.What We Offer:
The research at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG) at Aarhus University spans from basic to applied research within molecular biology. The department is organised in six research sections (Plant Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Neurobiology, RNA Biology and Innovation, Protein Science and Cellular Health, Intervention and Nutrition), a number of centres of excellence and various interdisciplinary centres.
Here, you can find:
The research at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG) at Aarhus University spans from basic to applied research within molecular biology. The department is organised in six research sections (Plant Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Neurobiology, RNA Biology and Innovation, Protein Science and Cellular Health, Intervention and Nutrition), a number of centres of excellence and various interdisciplinary centres.
Here, you can find:
- A lively and engaging research environment.
- Work with a large international research network.
- Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge plant molecular biology research
- Engage in a mix of specialized research tasks and routine activities suited to your learning path.
- Opportunity to develop project professional skills through coordinating lab logistics and vendor relationships
- Collaborate across research groups, building valuable professional connections and expanding your institutional knowledge
Workplace and area of employment
The place of work is Universitetsbyen 81 and the area of employment is Aarhus University and associated institutions.
Aarhus is the second largest city in Denmark with top museums and restaurants in a relaxed atmosphere (https://www.visitaarhus.com). The campus is within walking distance of the city centre, giving employees easy access to everything the city has to offer.
The place of work is Universitetsbyen 81 and the area of employment is Aarhus University and associated institutions.
Aarhus is the second largest city in Denmark with top museums and restaurants in a relaxed atmosphere (https://www.visitaarhus.com). The campus is within walking distance of the city centre, giving employees easy access to everything the city has to offer.
Contact Information
Further information can be obtained by contacting: Alen Trgovcevic, alen@mbg.au.dk.Deadline
All applications must be received by 18/08/2025 at the latest.
The first round of interviews will be held in week 36, and the second round of interviews in week 37.Formalities and salary range
Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions.
Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.
The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University's website.
Aarhus University
Aarhus University is an academically diverse and research-intensive university with a strong commitment to high-quality research and education and the development of society nationally and globally. The university offers an inspiring research and teaching environment to its 38,000 students (FTEs) and 8,300 employees, and has an annual revenues of EUR 935 million. Learn more at www.international.au.dk/
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Deadline: 18 August 2025
Academic contact person:
Simona Radutoiu
Professor
radutoiu@mbg.au.dk
+4587155498
Vacant positions: 1
Hours per week: 37
Number of months: 12
Expected date of accession: 01 October 2025
AARHUS UNIVERSITET
Nordre Ringgade 1
8000 Aarhus
Email: au@au.dk
Tlf: 8715 0000
CVR-nr: 31119103
Nordre Ringgade 1
8000 Aarhus
Email: au@au.dk
Tlf: 8715 0000
CVR-nr: 31119103