Senior Technician

About the role

The postholder will be an ambitious and organised individual who holds a thorough understanding of the underlying technical/scientific theory and recent advances in molecular biology. Experience with molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning and protein expression are essential. Knowledge of cell-culture techniques, especially the generation, manipulation and maintenance of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) is desirable.

A minimum level 4 qualification (e.g. higher apprenticeship, HNC or other Level 4 award, plus work experience in relevant area) is necessary for the Grade 5 position. Considerable and extensive work experience in the relevant technical/scientific posts is a suitable alternative to the qualifications listed.

The Randall department is highly rated in research activities and has an extensive portfolio of taught and research programmes. Supporting our staff is very important to us and we offer a range of provision including flexible working, caring support, training, and promotion opportunities.

The post holder's specific responsibilities include:

• Responsibility for the maintenance (breeding, culling, ear biopsies), genotyping (DNA isolation, PCR, DNA gel) and phenotyping (mouse handling, behavioural studies and dissection) of various mouse lines.
• Responsibility for the delivery and day-to-day management of a range of technical services, including but not limited to maintaining general laboratory consumables, making up stock solutions and ensuring an efficient use of resources.
• Manage/supervise the maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment, procuring stocks and supplies and maintaining and installing equipment, systems and software.

This is a full-time post (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract until 30/09/2028.

About You

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

• Minimum level 4 qualification, e.g., higher apprenticeship, HNC or other Level 4 award, plus work experience in relevant technical/scientific posts OR considerable knowledge and skills gained through work experience in relevant technical or scientific posts.
• Specific experience of mouse colony management, genotyping and basic phenotyping, with personal licence in place or willing to obtain at start of appointment.
• Evidence of an active commitment to career development including professional registration, such as RSci, or working towards CSci and clear progression in increasingly demanding jobs.
• Extensive technical experience and knowledge of a range of scientific procedures and the underpinning scientific theory applicable to the work area and their environmental impact. Specifically, experience with molecular biology techniques including PCR, restriction digestion and gel electrophoresis for genotyping.
• Clear spoken and written communication skills, with proficient computer use and strong interpersonal and influencing/behavioural skills.
• Proactive and responsive to contacts in immediate area, across the wider organisation and externally (e.g., suppliers) to build relationships and network.
• Solutions-focused self-starter, with excellent planning and analytical skills, able to manage competing priorities and work with minimal supervision.
• Good working knowledge of regulations and best practice governing area of work, including Health & Safety and environmental sustainability.
• Knowledge of environmental impacts of laboratory work and an interest in reducing the negative impacts.

Desirable criteria

• Undergraduate or postgraduate qualification MSc in Biological Sciences.
• Experience with protein-focused molecular biology techniques including cloning and protein expression.
• Experience of supervising/advising junior team members, giving feedback on performance levels and training/coaching where necessary.
• Able and willing to provide support beyond core hours, as required.