As part of the "OMEGA" project, UMR PIMIT is seeking an assistant engineer for a three-year position to support the monitoring of bat populations in Reunion Island and the collection/analysis of biological samples.
If you enjoy combining field monitoring protocols with laboratory analyses, you are encouraged to apply by December 16.
Start date scheduled for March 1, 2025.
Ecological and Epidemiological Monitoring
You will contribute to a research program on the Reunion free-tailed bat (Mormopterus francoismoutoui), a small insectivorous species emblematic of Reunion Island. This common species forms colonies with thousands or even tens of thousands of individuals. It roosts in a wide range of environments, including natural roosts such as caves and rocky crevices, and human-made structures, suggesting adaptation to the increasing urbanization of the island. The colony monitoring conducted by UMR PIMIT explores the impact of urbanization on the ecology of the Reunion free-tailed bats and the epidemiology of its infectious agents, specifically:
1 | Demographic characteristics: Changes in colony size and individual composition by age, sex, and reproductive status.
2 | Habitat use: Tracking individual movements and identifying roosting networks.
3 | Colony "health": Assessing dietary patterns, stress levels, infection rates, and gut microbiota composition.
Your tasks will include:
In the field:
- Organizing schedules, access permissions, and equipment (orders, maintenance) required for fieldwork.
- Monitoring bat colonies (population counts, searching for marked individuals, capturing individuals). Fieldwork may take place on weekends, public holidays, and at night.
- Collecting biological samples (saliva, feces, urine).
-Managing and storing biological samples (cold chain management, data logging).
In the laboratory:
- Analyzing samples using molecular biology techniques: nucleic acid extraction, PCR, electrophoresis, ELISA test.
- Preparing samples for further analyses or shipment to collaborators and service providers.
- Managing a database of results and drafting reports.
The profile we are looking for
You have developped the following skills:
- Strong general knowledge in natural sciences and biology.
- Ability to design and lead field and laboratory operations while adhering to ethical guidelines (experimentation and animal welfare) and health and safety regulations.
- Proficiency in bat capture techniques. Experience in capturing bats, or holding (French) certification for the capture and handling of bats, is a strong asset.
- Experience in molecular biology laboratory analyses is required.
- Valid category B driving license is essential.
You have the following personnal qualities:
- Methodical and organized, with autonomy and initiative.
- Rigorous laboratory organization.
- Teamwork skills, including collaboration with colleagues in functional roles (technical and/or scientific supervision) and networking with experts and internal or external partners.
Master’s degree (BAC+5) in Life and Earth Sciences, Biology, Ecology, or Environmental Studies.
To apply: Please send your CV and cover letter by email to the project’s lead scientist, Muriel DIETRICH, at zhevry.qvrgevpu@veq.se.