Genetics for Biodiversity Conservation Korea-Ecuador

[PJV]

Call for Applications: Genetics for Biodiversity Conservation.
The National Institute of Biological Resources of Korea (NIBR) invites applications for a highly motivated and experienced researcher to contribute to the project entitled “Establishment of the National Data Bank of Biodiversity in Ecuador”. This position presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to advanced and biodiversity conservation research through genetic resource data analysis, within a dynamic national research network in Ecuador, South America.
Position: Researcher in genetics for biodiversity conservation.
Location: National Institute of Biological Resources of Ecuador (INABIO), Quito, and 7 additional regional partner institutions (Urcuqui, Sangolgui, Tena, Loja, Santa Elena, Pichincha, Galapagos). Ecuador
Duration: Six months
Salary & Benefits:

• The total salary is KRW 31,680,000 (6 months, approx. USD 22,107).
• Accommodation and other expenses are subject to separate negotiation.
• The final amount may vary with exchange rate fluctuations.
• Additional benefits will be discussed if applicable.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and contribute to research projects focused on genetic resource data analysis using metagenomic approaches.
• Transfer knowledge, capacities and training to local researchers at INABIO and several associated research institutions.
• Develop and implement bioinformatics pipelines to process, analyze, and interpret genetic resource data for biodiversity conservation.
• Contribute to the development of biodiversity conservation strategies for Ecuador through genetic resource data analysis.
• Participate in biodiversity monitoring and genetic resource data analysis processes.
• Collaborate with a network of universities and research institutes across Ecuador.
• Prepare and present research findings in scientific publications and conferences.
• Contribute to the training and mentoring of students and technicians.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, genetics, Microbial Ecology, environmental DNA study or a related field.
• A Master’s degree or higher in bioinformatics, biology, genetics, molecular biology, or biodiversity-related fields.
• At least 8 years of research (including research as a graduate student) or professional experience in the field of biodiversity.
• Proven experience in bioinformatics research, including metagenomic analysis.
• Minimum of two (2) years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience in genetic resource data analysis.
• Strong expertise in bioinformatics tools and programming languages (e.g., R, Python, Perl).
• Excellent communication skills in English (both written and oral).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

Desired Skills:

• Experience in developing biodiversity conservation guidelines based on genetic resource data.
• Knowledge of Ecuadorian biodiversity and genetic resources.
• Familiarity with biodiversity monitoring and genetic resource data analysis protocols.
• Experience in handling and analyzing large-scale genetic resource datasets.

Proposed Tasks and Products:

• Development of biodiversity conservation strategies for Ecuador through genetic resource data analysis.
• Implementation of biodiversity monitoring processes.
• Development of robust bioinformatics pipelines for genetic resource data analysis.
• Publications in high-impact scientific journals.
• Presentations at national and international conferences.
• Technical reports and data summaries.

Working Environment:
The successful candidate will join a vibrant research team at INABIO and collaborate with a network of leading universities and research institutes in Ecuador. This position provides access to a small DNA sequencing laboratory, including Oxford Nanopore technology.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit the following documents in English:

• Cover letter outlining research interests and relevant experience.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications, Research Achievements, Degree Certificates (Certified copies of diplomas).
• Recommendation Letters (Three signed letters of recommendation from professional or academic referees) and Contact information for three professional references.
• A short research plan (max. 2 pages) for biodiversity conservation research in Ecuador using genetic resource data analysis in Ecuador.

Applications should be sent electronically to [[email protected]] with the subject line " Researcher - Soil Microbiome Bioinformatics."
Deadline for Applications: [October 31, 2025]