Research technician – Molecular Biology and Genomics

Department of Plant Biology

The TRIGEN research team at the Department of Plant Biology, SLU, is looking for a motivated research technician to support a set of ongoing experiments involving DNA and RNA extraction and genomic sequencing.

This is an opportunity to become an important part of a research project, working alongside scientists in a dynamic and collaborative environment at Biocentrum, Ultuna. If you enjoy practical laboratory work and want to contribute directly to generating high-quality genomic data, we would be very happy to hear from you.

About the position

We are looking for a research technician to support the TRIGEN research team with a defined set of molecular biology experiments. The position will focus primarily on the processing of cereal samples and preparation of material for downstream sequencing.

You will be responsible for:

• Extracting DNA and RNA from plant samples using established protocols.
• Assessing the concentration and quality of extracted DNA and RNA.
• Organizing and tracking a large number of samples throughout the experimental workflow.
• Preparing Genotyping-by-Sequencing (GBS) libraries, including the relevant enzymatic digestion, adapter ligation, amplification and purification steps.
• Performing quality control of sequencing libraries.
• Preparing and pooling libraries for submission to an external sequencing facility.
• Maintaining accurate laboratory records and sample documentation.
• Following established protocols and ensuring high-quality and reproducible laboratory work.

The work will involve a relatively large number of samples, making careful sample handling, organization and attention to detail particularly important. You will work independently on the laboratory tasks while being part of the broader TRIGEN research team and interacting closely with researchers involved in the experiments.

Your profile

We are looking for a person with practical experience in molecular biology who is comfortable working independently in a research laboratory.

Requirements

• Masters degree or equivalent experience in molecular biology, biotechnology, plant biology or a related field  that the employer considers equivalent.
• Practical experience with DNA and/or RNA extraction.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA purification and nucleic acid quantification.
• Good laboratory organization and documentation skills.
• Ability to work carefully and systematically with large numbers of samples.
• Ability to follow established protocols accurately and independently.
• Good communication and collaboration skills.

Meritorious

• Previous experience with Genotyping-by-Sequencing (GBS), RAD-seq or other NGS library preparation methods.
• Experience with high-throughput sample processing.
• Experience preparing sequencing libraries for submission to an external sequencing facility.
• Experience working with plant material.
• Experience with quality control of DNA, RNA or sequencing libraries.

We particularly value a candidate who is meticulous, reliable, well organized and enjoys hands-on experimental work.

About us

The successful candidate will join the TRIGEN research team at the Department of Plant Biology, Biocentrum, SLU Ultuna.

At the Department of Plant Biology, we conduct research and education in plant biology, addressing fundamental and applied questions using approaches ranging from molecular and cellular biology to genetics, genomics and plant–environment interactions. The department is part of the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), a leading university in life and environmental sciences.

For more information about the Department of Plant Biology, visit https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/department-of-plant-biology/

About TRIGEN: https://www.slu.se/en/research/research-catalogue/projekt/t/trigen/

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Location:

Uppsala, Biocentrum.

Form of employment:

Fixed-term employment 2 months, with the possibility of extension.

Scope:

100%.

Start date:

October 2026, or as agreed. 

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 17 September 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

We welcome your application consisting of:

• A CV describing your education, laboratory experience and relevant technical skills.
• A short motivation letter describing your interest in the position and relevant experience.
• Contact information for at least one reference.

Union representatives:

https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/

 

 

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden. SLU has around 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.