Kathmandu Institute of Applied Sciences (KIAS)^* is seeking competent, committed and result oriented researchers and supporting staffs to support the Center for Analytical Sciences at KIAS focusing on following project. 

Background of project: Contamination of food products with pesticides and (oo)cysts is a common public health problem. In this project, we aim to (a) develop paper-based analytical device to measure pesticide residues in food products combining enzyme inhibition assay and smartphone detection, (b) develop smartphone based microscopic system to measure (oo)cyst contamination in food products, and (c) validate both of above methods in field. These one-year (possibility of extension to one more year) positions are supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) via National Academy of Sciences, USA.

1. Post-Doctoral Research Fellow (full time contract)

Vacancy number: CAS1703, Position available: 1

Qualification: The ideal candidate should have a Ph.D. (in analytical chemistry, biotechnology or related fields) with significant laboratory experience and several first author publications, and have demonstrated excellence in communication & leadership. The candidate should be self-motivated and be able to work both independently and as a part of a team. Previous research experience in analytical method development and validation is desired.

Tasks: Specific duties of the postdoctoral research fellow include:

• Designing and performing experiments to develop paper-based analytical device to measure pesticide residue
• Maintaining proper lab records
• Providing guidance and training for students and researchers
• Preparation of manuscripts and assistance in grant writing
• Laboratory maintenance, including equipment maintenance
• Coordinate with other researchers within and outside the project
• Other duties as assigned by the PI of the project, which may include some administrative and outreach activities

 2. Project coordinator (full time contract)

Vacancy number: CAS1704, Position available: 1

Qualification: The ideal candidate should have at least a B.S. (in chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology or related fields) with some laboratory and research experience, and have demonstrated excellence in communication & leadership. (S)he should be highly motivated and should be able to work both independently and as part of a team.

Tasks: Specific duties include

• Coordinate with other researchers involved in the project and collaborators
• Coordinate meetings & field trips
• Maintaining proper paper works of the project
• Taking care of equipment, supplies and other logistics involved in the project
• Other duties as assigned by the PI of the project, which may include some administrative and outreach activities

3. Dissertation students (full time students)

Vacancy number: CAS1705, Positions available: 2

Students will be supported for their dissertation work by providing necessary financial assistance along with supervision.

Qualification: The ideal candidates should be regular MS/BS students (in chemistry, biotechnology, environmental science, microbiology or related fields) enrolled in University/College in Kathmandu, Nepal. The students must have demonstrated excellence in communication & leadership. They should be highly motivated and should be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Previous research experience is preferred. Selected candidates should be able to work at least one year and preference will be given to those who are towards the end of first year or second semester in case of MS and towards the end of third year in case of BS.

There are two tracks for thesis support opportunity:

(a) develop paper-based analytical device to measure pesticide residue in food products combining enzyme inhibition assay and smartphone for signal detection,

(b) develop smartphone based microscopic system to measure (oo)cyst contamination in food products

Both tracks require extensive lab works. Please indicate track category you are interested in while submitting your application.

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Location

All positions are based in KIAS Kathmandu office with some field visits outside Kathmandu.

Salary & benefits

KIAS provides competitive salary and benefits to deserving candidates and appointments will be made in accordance with KIAS policy.

Application closing date

All positions are available immediately. Applications will be reviewed on rolling basis and only selected candidates will be contacted for next steps.

Last date to submit application: February 10, 2018

Email your application to:

Human Resource Department

Kathmandu Institute of Applied Sciences

Kathmandu, Nepal

Email: career@kias.org.np

The application should include a current CV and a letter of interest. Please do not forget to write vacancy number on subject line of the email.

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^*Kathmandu Institute of Applied Sciences (KIAS) is a not-for-profit research organization in Nepal established by a group of Nepali scientists with proven excellence in basic and applied science. KIAS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building a broadly diverse and inclusive researchers, and staffs and believes in promoting affirmative action to achieve such diversities. KIAS encourages all qualified applicants, including minorities and women.