Research Assistant

Project TitleBridging the Information Gap on Caseous Lymphadenitis in the UAE: An Economically Important Disease with Limited Research in Camels and No Studies in Sheep and GoatsProject Number: G00005455Funding Scheme: UPARDuration: Full-time, 24 months (aligned with project period)Location: United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)Position SummaryThe Research Assistant will support a multidisciplinary research project investigating Caseous Lymphadenitis (CLA) in sheep, goats, and camels in the Abu Dhabi Emirate. The role involves integrated field, clinical, and laboratory responsibilities. The successful candidate will contribute to sample collection, clinical procedures, laboratory diagnostics, data management, and research reporting while ensuring full compliance with biosafety and ethical standards.Key ResponsibilitiesField & Clinical DutiesConduct fieldwork and abattoir-based research activities.Collect clinical samples including blood, pus, and abscess-affected tissues following approved biosafety and ethical protocols.Perform minor surgical procedures (e.g., incision and drainage of abscesses) under approved clinical guidelines.Assist in clinical examinations and post‑mortem inspections under supervision.Ensure proper animal handling and welfare compliance.Laboratory ResponsibilitiesPerform microbiological procedures including bacterial isolation and identification.Conduct serological assays (e.g., ELISA, IFN‑γ assays).Carry out molecular techniques such as PCR and sample preparation for sequencing.Prepare, process, label, store and document biological samples accurately.Maintain laboratory cleanliness, equipment functionality and safety standards.Research & Administrative SupportMaintain accurate research records, laboratory logs and reports.Assist in data entry, management and preliminary analysis.Support manuscript preparation, technical reports and workshop organization.Ensure compliance with institutional, ethical and biosafety regulations.Support senior researchers and veterinarians in project implementation.Minimum QualificationBachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine (mandatory).Valid veterinary license to practice.Valid driving license.Demonstrated clinical experience in livestock handling and examination.Ability to collect clinical samples, including blood, pus, and tissue specimens.Competence in performing minor surgical procedures (e.g., abscess incision and drainage).Ability to conduct fieldwork and work in farm and abattoir environments.Strong organizational skills with accurate documentation and record‑keeping.Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.Demonstrated diligence, integrity, reliability and a strong professional work ethic.Preferred QualificationMaster’s degree in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Animal Diseases, Microbiology, or a closely related field.Practical laboratory experience in microbiology, serology and molecular techniques (e.g., bacterial culture, ELISA, PCR).Experience in livestock disease research.Prior involvement in funded research projects.Experience in molecular sample preparation and sequencing workflows.Age preferably not exceeding 35 years, in line with project requirements.Expected SkillsClinical experience in livestock examination and handling (sheep, goats, camels preferred).Experience in field‑based veterinary work and sample collection.Hands‑on experience in minor surgical procedures (e.g., abscess incision and drainage).Practical laboratory experience in microbiology, serology and molecular diagnostics (culture, ELISA, PCR).Experience in research data recording, documentation and basic data management.Previous participation in funded research projects (preferred).Knowledge of biosafety, ethical and laboratory compliance standards.Strong organizational and documentation skills.Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.Good communication and reporting skills.Strong work ethic, integrity and attention to detail.Willingness to conduct fieldwork and laboratory duties as required.Salary RangeUSD 6,500 – 7,000 per month.Closing Date31/05/2026Reports ToPrincipal Investigator#J-18808-Ljbffr