Basic Function:

Teagasc is seeking to recruit a Technologist in mass spectrometry to undertake laboratory activities in relation to the analysis of food ingredients, foods and digested food samples by mass spectrometry analysis (LC-MS-QTOF). The work will involve wet-lab sample preparation, analysis by LC-MS and data processing. Special emphasis will be placed on the (i) proteomic and peptidomic analysis of protein digesta and (ii) metabolomics analysis of food and food ingredients. This will include the statistical analysis of MS data as well as the visualization of results.

The appointee will work as part of a scientific team based in the Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co Cork in collaboration with an international partner.  They will participate in project and budgetary management, acquire presentation skills and efficient communication tools.

Background:

Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority, is the national body providing integrated research, advisory and training services to the agriculture and food industry and rural communities.  This opportunity will provide the successful candidate with an opportunity to apply knowledge of food science/biochemistry/analytical chemistry/chemistry for the development of next-generation protein products.

The protein chemistry, food structure and digestion group is led by Dr André Brodkorb, and is based in the Teagasc Food Research Centre (TFRC) Moorepark in Fermoy, Ireland. The group consists of approximately 8-12 scientists made up of PhD students, post-doctorates and research scientists from around the world. The laboratory is internationally recognized as a centre of excellence for protein science and digestion. The areas of interest cover the structure/function relationship of food and food ingredients, proteins and hydrocolloids in particular. Changes are monitored from “from source to delivery” i.e. processing, food production and storage all the way to consumption and gastro-intestinal transit in vitro and in vivo. A range of state-of-the-art equipment and facilities are available to the group, as part of the Food Chemistry and Technology Department in the TFRC.

• Analysis at laboratory scale to fully characterize the food food ingredient and bioproducts in terms of their protein and peptide profile, and metabolites using high resolution mass spectrometry.
• Responsibility for the running of an Agilent LS-MS-QTOF equipment.
• Data-processing, statistical analysis and visualisation of results.
• To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
• To actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes.
• Fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
• Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time

* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive.  It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.

 Note:  The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.