Call for Applications
Post of Scientific Officer (Zebrafish Research Facility)
Department of Applied Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Sciences

The University is seeking to recruit a Scientific Officer in the Department of Applied Biomedical Science within the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Malta to assist in the management and operation of the Zebrafish Research Facility and to support ongoing research projects using zebrafish as a model organism.

The selected candidate will contribute to the development, expansion, and long-term maintenance of the zebrafish research facility and will assist in the implementation of laboratory-based research activities conducted within the Department. The role involves, but is not limited to, zebrafish husbandry and facility management, laboratory-based experimental work, support of undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, data analysis, laboratory coordination, training, and assistance with project administration and reporting, amongst other.

The Scientific Officer will work closely with the Principal Investigator of the Zebrafish Research Facility, Professor Melissa Formosa, and other members of the research team to ensure the smooth running of the facility and the successful implementation of research activities. The Scientific Officer will report to the Principal Investigator.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be in possession of a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science, Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or another relevant area related to the life sciences.

A Master’s degree in a relavant scientific discipline will be considered an asset.  

Applicants should have a good command of English. Knowledge of laboratory-based biological research techniques will be considered an advantage.

Due importance will be given to applicants who demonstrate aptitude and experience in the following areas:

• Laboratory-based biological research, including molecular biology techniques and related methodologies;
• Handling and management of laboratory animal models, particularly zebrafish or other aquatic model organisms;
• Laboratory management and organisation, including maintenance of research equipment and monitoring of consumables;
• Data collection, analysis, and interpretation in the context of biomedical research.

Preference will also be given to applicants who demonstrate the ability to:

• Support and help undergraduate and postgraduate students conduct laboratory-based research projects;
• Assist in the coordination and implementation of research projects;
• Contribute to scientific dissemination activities including the preparation of research reports and scientific publications;
• Assist in the administrative and financial aspects of research projects, including monitoring budgets, procurement procedures, and reporting requirements in line with University financial regulations.

The ideal candidate is expected to possess:

• Good interpersonal and communication skills;
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail;
• The ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• Be willing to further his/her studies and learn new procedures.

Salary Details

The salary for 2026 attached to the post is €29,994 rising by annual increments of €500 up to a maximum of €33,494. On completion of two years’ service in the grade, the appointee will, on satisfactory performance, be entitled to move on to the next salary band with annual increments of €535 up to a maximum of €35,764.
 

After a further period of five years’ service in the grade, the appointee will, on satisfactory performance, be entitled to move on to the next salary band with annual increments of €600 up to a maximum of €38,384.

Application Procedures

Candidates are required to upload their curriculum vitae, certificates (certificates should be submitted preferably in English) and names and emails of three referees through this form: https://www.um.edu.mt/hrmd/workatum-general

Applications should be received by Sunday, 24 May 2026.

Late applications will not be considered.

Further Information

The selected candidate will contribute to the management, development, and scientific operation of the Zebrafish Research Facility within the Department. The role will support ongoing research projects, laboratory activities, and student training. Duties will include, but are not limited to, the following areas:

1.      Zebrafish facility management & animal husbandry

• Assist in the establishment, organisation, and day-to-day running of the zebrafish research facility.
• Carry out routine zebrafish husbandry activities, including feeding (dry and live feed), monitoring fish health, and maintaining aquaculture systems.
• Monitor and maintain environmental parameters of the fish housing system, including water quality, temperature, lighting, and system pressure.
• Maintain zebrafish stocks and manage breeding schedules for the maintenance of fish lines and experimental work.
• Maintain accurate records of zebrafish lines and experimental stocks through the zebrafish facility database.
• Assist in the monitoring of consumables and supplies required for the zebrafish facility.
• Ensure that all activities comply with institutional animal welfare regulations and Health and Safety guidelines.
• Undergo the necessary training and certification related to zebrafish husbandry and the handling of animal models.

2. Experimental design & laboratory research

• Support laboratory-based research activities using zebrafish model depending on ongoing projects.
• Optimise and perform different laboratory techniques such as microinjection of zebrafish embryos for genome editing, toxicity exposure experiments, dosing protocols, and phenotypic assessments, histology and histomorphometric analyses, amongst others.
• Conduct molecular biology experiments such as DNA/RNA/protein isolation, quantification, purification, and aliquoting.
• Design and optimise PCR assays, including primer design and validation.
• Prepare the necessary reagents for staining procedures and zebrafish rearing.
• Assist in the collection, organisation, and analysis of research data generated through ongoing projects.

3. Laboratory management & technical support

• Assist in maintaining laboratory infrastructure and equipment, including zebrafish housing systems and laboratory instrumentation.
• Monitor and maintain stocks of laboratory consumables in accordance with good laboratory practice.
• Act as a contact person in case of laboratory system alarms or facility emergencies.
• Assist the Principal Investigator in obtaining quotations and processing requisitions and purchase orders related to laboratory consumables and equipment.
• Maintain records of purchased items and support monitoring of project expenditure.

4. Student support & research training

• Assist undergraduate and postgraduate students conducting research projects within the zebrafish facility.
• Provide guidance on experimental design, laboratory techniques, and data analysis.
• Oversee students when handling zebrafish and related biological materials.
• Support the development of student research projects and assist in troubleshooting laboratory procedures.

5. Research dissemination & scientific contribution

• Participate in research group meetings and contribute to project discussions.
• Assist in the preparation of technical and financial project reports where required.
• Contribute to the dissemination of research findings through outreach activities and public engagement initiatives.
• Assist in the preparation of scientific publications arising from the research projects.
• Support the management and updating of project-related digital platforms, including project websites and social media pages.

6. Coordination & administration

• Assist in the coordination of research activities within the zebrafish facility.
• Support administrative tasks related to research projects and laboratory operations.
• Participate in departmental research activities and provide support to ongoing research initiatives.
• Perform any other project-related duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator.

The Scientific Officer will need to report to the Principal Investigator of the Zebrafish Research Facility.

The appointee is expected to work:

• On a full-time basis, and will not be allowed to engage in any other gainful employment without the permission of the Council; and
• At such places and during such hours as may be determined by the University Authorities.

The Selection Procedures:

• The evaluation of qualifications and experience claimed and supported by testimonials and/or certificates (copies to be included with the application).
• Short-listing of candidates.
• An invitation to short-listed candidates to a Selection Board interview.

The Selection Process:

The selection process will follow the document “Guidelines for Members of Selection Boards in the Recruitment of Administrative, Technical and Industrial Staff”

(https://www.um.edu.mt/hrmd/policiesprocedures).

In accordance with the guidelines, members of the Selection Board will establish the following selection criteria for the selection process:

• Relevant academic qualifications
• Relevant experience and skills
• Aptitude and suitability; and
• Performance during the interview

The appointment will be subject to a probationary period of one year, and to the provisions of the Statutes, Regulations and Bye-Laws of the University which are now or which may hereafter be in force.

The University of Malta is an Equal Opportunity employer.

Office of the University
Msida, 27 April 2026

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