Research Support Engineer - Photonics & Biotech
Role Overview:
The Research Support Engineer role will be supported by the ERC Consolidator Grant Project MicroPAS - Microbial Photonics Across Scales, within the Physics of Living Matter Group, directed by Prof. Anupam Sengupta. MicroPAS aims to uncover and engineer microbial photonic phenomena across scales, integrating concepts from soft matter physics, photonics, microbiology, and materials science. The project combines extensive laboratory experimentation, advanced microscopy, microbial cultivation, optical characterisation, together with field-based investigations in Switzerland and Germany. Your role will provide technical and experimental support for research activities within the MicroPAS project.
Responsibilities:
- Assist in the design, assembly, operation, and maintenance of optical and photonic instrumentation
- Support experiments involving soft materials, chemical analysis and characterisation, biophotonic systems, microbial cultures, and bio-inspired materials
- Perform sample preparation, cultivation, handling, and characterisation of microorganisms and biological materials
- Contribute to microscopy, spectroscopy, chemical analysis, and data acquisition workflows
- Manage laboratory infrastructure, equipment maintenance, inventories, and safety procedures
- Support field research campaigns and scientific measurements in Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Germany
- Assist with data management, documentation, and preparation of technical reports
- Contribute to the training and support of students and researchers working within the project
- Participate in the implementation of best laboratory practices and quality assurance procedures
Requirements:
- Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Photonics, Materials Science, Biophysics, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Bioengineering, or a closely related discipline
- Demonstrated hands-on laboratory experience in at least two of the following areas: Photonics, optical instrumentation, spectroscopy; Bottom-up chemical synthesis, characterization, analytical chemistry; Soft matter and/or biological materials; Chemical microbiology and/or Microbial biotechnology
- Experience in chemical synthesis and characterisation, operating scientific instrumentation and laboratory equipment
- Basic understanding of biochemistry, chemical microbiology and microbial biotechnology
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Luxembourgish, German and/or French will be a plus
Qualifications:
- Willingness to travel for fieldwork and scientific campaigns
- Experience with microscopy, spectroscopy, optical characterisation, or imaging techniques
- Knowledge of microbial cultivation, sterile techniques, and biological sample preparation
- Familiarity with laboratory data acquisition and analysis software
- Knowledge of laboratory safety and quality management procedures
- Previous experience supporting interdisciplinary research projects
What They Offer:
- A modern, dynamic university with a personal and inclusive atmosphere
- Multilingual and international character. Staff coming from more than 90 countries
- Member of The Guild of European Research Intensive Universities
- An exceptional research environment, supported by skilled staff and high-quality equipment
- Strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market
- A unique urban campus with excellent infrastructure
- A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and a wide range of non-academic partners including ministries, local governments, associations, and NGOs