The basic functions will be to organize and undertake analysis of samples for Listeria and to characterize the isolates obtained with regard to sub-typing and virulence. Additionally, the successful candidate will network with the other participants in the project.
Background: This project is funded by the Food Institutional Research Measure and involves a number of participants from Ireland. Listeria monocytogenes is a particular risk for the ready-to-eat (RTE) food sector. The project involves coordinating the collection and analysis of samples from 70 RTE food businesses in the meat, dairy, fish and fresh cut vegetable sectors in Ireland. This will facilitate identification of the sources of contamination, assess strain persistence in food processing plants and assess the disease potential associated with strains. The project is aimed at minimising the potential risk Listeria poses to the RTE food industry and the Irish food supply chain.
The successful candidate will, under the direction/guidance of the project Principal Investigator, analyse the relevant samples for Listeria monocytogenes, characterize the isolates, analyse/interpret the data, and report on the findings to the research team, and collaborators. The position will be ‘hands-on’ in that it will require an ability to engage on the ground in the laboratory and to interact with the other project participants.
Closing date - 12 midnight on Thursday 4th September 2014.
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