Technical University of Crete

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. The primary responsibility of this role is to deliver an industry innovation research project as part of a research team developing molecular and sequencing workflows for microbial characterization. The work supports the rapid detection of microbial bioburden in biopharmaceutical cleaning validation using a Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) biosensor platform. Responsibilities include next-generation sequencing (NGS), qPCR-based molecular assays for microbial quantification and aptamer validation, and experimental support for aptamer discovery targeting environmental microorganisms listed in the US Pharmacopeia. Key Responsibilities Technical Responsibilities Perform microbial community characterization using next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms such as Illumina sequencing or Oxford Nanopore sequencing.  Design and perform qPCR-based molecular assays for microbial quantification and aptamer validation. Prepare DNA sequencing libraries, including nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and library preparation.  Conduct basic bioinformatics processing of sequencing data, including sequence quality control and taxonomic profiling where required. Support aptamer discovery and validation experiments, including nucleic acid preparation, amplification, and molecular characterization. Perform routine molecular biology techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA purification, and nucleic acid quantification. Maintain accurate laboratory records and experimental documentation. Research & Project Responsibilities Plan and execute experimental workflows to support project milestones related to microbial detection and biosensor development. Contribute to sequencing-based microbial profiling of environmental and cleaning validation samples. Work collaboratively with project investigators and interdisciplinary teams to integrate sequencing and molecular biology results with biosensor development. Prepare technical reports and contribute to scientific publications, presentations, and project documentation. Support generation of experimental data required for project validation and milestone reporting. Operational Responsibilities Ensure laboratory compliance with Work Safety and Health (WSH) regulations and institutional safety guidelines. Manage procurement and inventory of molecular biology and sequencing consumables. Maintain laboratory equipment used for molecular biology and sequencing workflows. Mentorship Support training of junior researchers, research assistants, and students where required.  Contribute to knowledge sharing within the research group. To communicate in any relevant internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor. Job Requirements Essential Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field. Possessing a Master’s or PhD degree will be advantageous Hands-on experience with next-generation sequencing technologies, such as Illumina or Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms including sequencing library preparation Demonstrated experience working with environmental or low-biomass microbial samples. Demonstrated experience with DNA extraction and PCR amplification Demonstrated experience performing qPCR assays for nucleic acid quantification and molecular analysis, including troubleshooting Demonstrated experience with aptamer technologies or nucleic acid-based molecular recognition systems. Strong laboratory skills in molecular biology techniques. Preferred  Familiarity with microbial community sequencing workflows such as 16S rRNA sequencing or metagenomic analysis. Demonstrated experience with bioinformatics tools for sequencing data processing (e.g., quality control, taxonomic classification, microbial community analysis).  Demonstrated experience working in interdisciplinary or industry-linked research projects. Key Competencies Strong experimental design and troubleshooting skills in molecular biology.  Ability to independently conduct laboratory experiments and manage datasets. Strong scientific communication skills, including technical reporting and presentations. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams. Good organizational and project management skills.

School of Agriculture and Environment Joint Education Institute (JEI), Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University (NWAFU), Yangling Campus, Shaanxi Province, China The School of Agriculture and Environment at Massey University is seeking applicants to fill two Senior Lecturer / Associate Professor positions teaching at the Joint Education Institute (JEI), NWAFU, China. These are full-time, permanent positions. Mo tenei turanga mahi - About the role These positions are the first appointments in a cluster of hires that will form part of a new collaborative Joint Education Institute programme between the School of Agriculture and Environment at Massey University in New Zealand and Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, China. The primary responsibility of these roles is the delivery of teaching within this collaborative programme. The positions will be based at the NWAFU campus in Yangling, China, and appointees will be expected to reside there and be present on campus during the teaching semesters at a minimum. Subject to programme requirements, up to two weeks per year may be spent at the Massey University campus in Palmerston North, New Zealand, outside of the teaching periods. The language of instruction will be English and the role includes: Preparing and presenting lectures, tutorials and other classes for undergraduate students in programmes offered, or contributed to, by the School of Agriculture and Environment at NWAFU. Co-developing curricula for courses as required and directed by the leadership of the Joint Education Institute, using teaching material currently used in Massey University programmes. Using, introducing and developing modern teaching methods, including electronic and digital tools, to enhance students' learning experiences and outcomes. Designing and managing appropriate assessments for courses in line with the learning objectives. Collaborating with staff based in New Zealand within the School of Agriculture and Environment to ensure the material delivered is relevant and aligned with the New Zealand-based teaching material. Undertaking an active, appropriate and viable personal research programme or participating in team-based research. Collaborating with other Massey University and NWAFU researchers working in other subject areas. Publishing papers and other scholarly works in academic journals, books and other media. Seeking both internal and external funding for research. Mou - About you Successful candidates will hold a PhD in Horticulture, Plant Science or a closely related discipline and will have demonstrated experience teaching university-level courses in English. Applicants should have a proven record of successful tertiary teaching and research experience, including publication of scholarly articles. Appointees will be required to enter into a supplementary contract relating to provisions made by the University for undertaking duties in China. To be eligible for appointment, applicants must be able to obtain, or currently have, the legal right to work without restriction in both New Zealand and China. More information about these requirements can be provided on request. Ko nga hua o te turanga? - What's in it for you? Given the unique nature of this opportunity, additional financial assistance will be available to support relocation and travel costs associated with moving to, and living in, China. Further details about this support, including eligible travel expenses, can be provided on request. Travel costs for the annual two-week visit to Massey University's Palmerston North campus to interact with staff are covered by the University. Successful candidates will also receive: Up to 6.75% employer contribution to the NZ UniSaver Superannuation Scheme. Massey University annual leave entitlement and five Massey University holidays each year. A subsidised Southern Cross Healthcare plan for appointees and their whanau/family. The salary will depend on experience and will be in the range of NZD$107,916 - NZD$166,584, paid into a New Zealand bank account. Apply now and make an impact that matters! Further enquiries should be directed to Professor Paul Kenyon at p.r.kenyon@massey.ac.nz

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. Key Responsibilities Participate in and manage the research project with the Principal Investigator (PI), co-PIs, research team and industry partners to ensure all project deliverables are met. Conduct insights-driven evaluations of existing QA/QC testing practices and identify opportunities to enhance efficiency and reduce redundant testing while maintaining compliance. Curate, standardize and integrate historical and statistical data to form the foundation of a structured database for construction QA/QC and traceability. Design and implement a digital chain-of-custody framework that captures assurance records including mill certificates, fabrication data, inspection results and carbon footprint information. Develop, train and validate AI models to automate QA/QC processes, enabling real-time verification, anomaly detection and consistency checks across records. Develop a cloud-based verification platform for digital data collection and real-time analytics. Develop and apply non-destructive testing (NDT) methods and data-driven approaches to determine material properties of reclaimed steel. Investigate geometric imperfections, accumulated deformations, and their impact on structural performance, particularly for compression members. Develop data-driven reusability assessment platforms integrating NDT data, machine learning models, and RFID-enabled traceability systems. Prepare and draft technical reports, conference/journal papers, and presentation materials; present research findings to internal reviews, industry partners and stakeholders. Engage with industry stakeholders throughout development, testing and refinement to ensure alignment with real-world requirements. To communicate in any relevant internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor.  Job Requirements Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Civil/Construction Engineering, Engineering Systems or equivalent. Strong foundation in data engineering, AI/ML development, and software systems (e.g., data pipelines, cloud services, dashboards, web-based application development). Experience in handling real-world datasets and model development/deployment workflows. Domain expertise in building construction/civil/structural engineering, including familiarity with building management systems, software integration, data collection and analysis. Knowledge of construction QA/QC and quality control workflows (e.g., inspection processes, test documentation, traceability and compliance records) is an advantage. Strong background in structural engineering, structural mechanics, or steel structures. Familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques for structural materials is desirable. Experience with structural modelling and analysis tools (e.g., finite element modelling, structural simulation) is desirable. Good interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams. Strong analytical and conceptual abilities; able to work both in a team and independently. Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Key Competencies Proficient in Python or other equivalent programming languages. Strong foundation in data analytics and data-driven modelling. Able to build and maintain strong working relationships with people within and external to the university. Able to work independently with strong data analytical skills, communication and interpersonal skills. Self-directed learner who believes in continuous learning and development. Proficient in technical writing and presentation. Possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Show strong initiative and take ownership of work.