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- Tasks: Join our team to conduct vital research on animal models for human diseases.
- Company: MRC Mary Lyon Centre, a leading genetics research institute.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in understanding human diseases while working with animals.
- Qualifications: A Levels in science and experience in a research setting preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and learning in a collaborative team.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 36000 £ per year.
The MRC Mary Lyon Centre (MLC) is located in an expanding science and innovation campus in Oxfordshire and is an internationally renowned centre at the forefront of genetics research. As the hub of the new National Mouse Genetics Network, the specialist facilities and capabilities of the MLC support a number of research groups across the UK to accelerate our understanding of human diseases, such as cancer, developmental disorders and neurodegeneration.
Overall Purpose: We have an opportunity for an Animal Technician to join our In Vivo Studies team in the Mary Lyon Centre at MRC Harwell (MLC), working across several different research projects to provide high-quality technical procedures and research data for external academic researchers or biotech companies. These studies involve mouse models of human diseases, including cancers, mitochondrial disease, kidney disease and other areas. The post-holder will work as part of a team and will carry out procedures including dosing and tissue dissection as well as general husbandry and welfare assessments. The post-holder will report directly to the Study Manager and will work closely with members of the In Vivo Studies team.
Main Duties/Key Responsibilities:
- Carry out regular licensed procedures (after comprehensive training), alone or with other team members, as requested daily. This will include a variety of procedures such as dosing, imaging and dissections.
- Carry out animal husbandry work, to check the health and welfare of mice and address their welfare needs (including working on weekends on a rota basis).
- Keep meticulous records of all experimental animals.
- Aid with diluting of drugs and basic dosing calculations.
- Read and adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and risk assessments.
- Read and work under Home Office Project Licences and undergo training to achieve a personal licence to allow work on mice.
- Assist with data quality checks.
- Liaise with other groups as needed.
Working Relationships: The post-holder will be required to work alone and as part of a team. Daily interactions are also expected with members of other teams. They will be line managed by the Study Manager under the Project Manager. Routine interaction with every level of seniority is expected.
Person Specification
Education/Qualifications/Training Required:
- Essential: A Levels/higher education in a science subject.
- Desirable: Home Office Personal Licence Holder.
Previous Work Experience Required:
- Essential: Experience of working in a research environment.
- Desirable: Experience of in vivo work; Experience working under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.
Knowledge and Experience:
- Essential: Proficient in the use of Microsoft packages; Ability to accurately follow protocols/SOPs; Experience of working alone and as part of a team; Genuine interest in the welfare of animals; Experience of working in a fast-paced environment.
- Desirable: Experience of calculating concentrations and doses.
Personal skills/Behaviours/Qualities:
- Essential: Positive attitude and the ability to constructively interact with other people at every level of seniority; Flexibility to adapt to daily changes and the ability to make quick decisions are essential; Enthusiastic, meticulous and patient.
Animal Technician in Didcot employer: Medical Research Council
Contact Detail:
Medical Research Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Technician in Didcot
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of animal research, especially those at the MRC Mary Lyon Centre. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about job openings before they’re advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of animal welfare and research protocols. We recommend practising common interview questions related to in vivo studies and being ready to discuss your previous experience in a research environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for animal welfare! During interviews, share specific examples of how you’ve prioritised animal care in past roles. This will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to the responsibilities of an Animal Technician.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else.
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Technician in Didcot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Animal Technician role. Highlight any relevant experience in research environments and your understanding of animal welfare. We want to see how your background fits with our work at the MLC!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for animal welfare and research, and explain why you’re excited about joining our In Vivo Studies team. Let us know what makes you the perfect fit for this role.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your technical skills, especially if you have experience with procedures like dosing or dissections. We love seeing candidates who can follow protocols meticulously and work well in a team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Medical Research Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of animal welfare and the specific procedures you'll be involved in. Familiarise yourself with the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and any relevant SOPs. This shows you're serious about the role and understand the responsibilities that come with it.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your genuine interest in animal welfare shine through. Share any experiences you've had in a research environment or with in vivo work. Employers love to see candidates who are enthusiastic and committed to the field!
✨Team Player Vibes
Since this role involves working closely with a team, be ready to discuss how you collaborate with others. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team setting, especially in fast-paced environments. Highlight your flexibility and ability to adapt to changes.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the specific research projects you'll be involved in or how the team collaborates with other groups. It shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the organisation.
