Research Technician (91836) in Liverpool

Location: Liverpool

Duration: Fixed-term appointment to 31st December 2026 (possibility of extension subject to funding)

The Liverpool Insect Testing Establishment (LITE) is a specialist facility established by the Vector Biology Department to provide high-quality testing services for commercial and research partners. LITE supports the development and evaluation of new vector control tools by conducting controlled laboratory studies that assess the effectiveness of insecticides, repellents and other vector control products against a wide range of mosquito populations.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Research Technician to join our dynamic Team. The successful post holder will help to maintain multiple strains of mosquitoes for research purposes and preparing for and performing bioassays to evaluate the sensitivity to insecticides. As a member of the LITE team, you will ensure the highest common standards of good laboratory best practice, statutory compliance, housekeeping and general health and safety are maintained always. The post holder will adhere to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) in the rearing and testing of mosquitoes within LITE and carry out day-to-day technical functions to the highest standard in accordance with LSTM and funder’s guidelines. The position is based at the LSTM and will involve Saturday morning working on a rotational basis and Christmas rota for rearing as required.

Key Accountabilities will include:

• To rear multiple uninfected colonies of mosquitoes from existing lab strains, taking responsibility for the ‘ownership’ of one or more colonies.
• Contribute to the smooth running of insectaries, including inventory control and weekly stock checks, ensuring good standards of housekeeping are maintained always.
• To assist the Head of LITE with development of standard operating procedures and risk assessments for LITE processes and compounds as required.
• Participate in staff development and training sessions as required to enhance and update skills to maintain an efficient and effective service.
• To perform bioassays on mosquitoes using a range of insecticides and methodologies.
• Record data in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintaining appropriate standards of confidentiality and ensuring that all documentation is securely and appropriately filed/stored in accordance to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
• Responsible for adhering to Good Documentation Practice.
• Responsible for recording raw data promptly and accurately and in compliance with GLP.
• Responsible for the quality of the data recorded.
• Data interpretation of results as required.
• Act as a project owner for some client projects and demonstrate good project management skills to achieve a successful outcome, including liaising with group members to ensure sufficient live material is available when needed for project work and adequate preparation has been completed to ensure smooth running of the test.
• Prioritise, organise efficiently, work independently and use own initiative to balance a varied and busy workload.
• Raise and report any deviation or amendments from the Study protocol to the Study Director, Test Facility Manager and Quality.
• To support project investigations and resulting Corrective Action Preventative Action reports (CAPAs).

Working in a safe manner:

• Adhere to local and legal requirements.
• Undertake personal health and safety responsibilities in accordance with H&S legislation and LSTM’s Health & Safety Policy and procedures.

The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work as an integral and flexible member of fast-paced multi-disciplinary research team. You will be able to demonstrate:

• Qualified to GCSE level (or equivalent) including Maths and English Language.
• BSc in Biological Science or sciences related subject or equivalent (desirable).
• Ability to implement and adapt complex biological techniques or protocols.
• Ability to maintain and interpret written and electronic data records.
• Understanding of Good Laboratory Practices with an understanding in the importance of raw data treatment.
• Willingness to work in hot and humid conditions.
• Knowledge of working in an industrial setting with awareness and knowledge of working to GLP (desirable).

Additional benefits of joining LSTM:

• Generous occupational pension schemes.
• Government backed “cycle to work” scheme.
• Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre.
• A range of additional family friendly policies.

Application Process:

To apply for the position please follow the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter. Due to the volume of applications, we receive, we may close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role.

Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM. We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience. We welcome conversations about flexible working; and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.

Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for people of the less developed/resource poorest countries in the tropics and sub-tropics.