At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in providing top-notch flow cytometry services and training for researchers.
- Company: Join the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, a hub of scientific innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration with leading scientists.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while developing your expertise in flow cytometry.
- Qualifications: Degree in a scientific field; experience with flow cytometry is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Overall purpose: The post holder will deputise for the Head of the Facility in providing a high‑quality sorting service to all scientists using the Flow Cytometry Facility at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB). You will join an established team of expert flow cytometrists with particular strengths in cell biology. Duties will include daily instrument QC, operation, maintenance and work scheduling. The post holder will also train the staff and users of the facility and will contribute to day‑to‑day management of the facility by supporting scientists using a wide range of cytometers and cytometry techniques. Overall the post holder will be expected to be a source of expertise in flow cytometry and play a major role in the technological development of the facility which includes consultation with scientists and advising on experimental design and data analysis. The goal would be to ensure that the equipment and techniques generate qualitatively reproducible data for the users of the Facility.
Main duties/Key responsibilities:
- To support the work of the Head of the Flow Cytometry Facility in providing a reliable cell sorting and analysis service for researchers.
- To execute the daily operation, QC and maintenance of cell sorters and flow cytometers including the ThermoFisher Bigfoot, Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX LX, Sony ID7000 and Synergy, Beckton Dickinson Fusion and Fortessa and Miltenyi TytoLux.
- To support the Head in contributions to the drafting of standard operating protocols, risk assessments and grant proposals.
- Contribution to the day‑to‑day management of the facility including scheduling time sensitive experiments and coordinating with service engineers, biotechnology sales representatives and application specialists in the field of flow cytometry.
- To train post‑doctoral scientists, students and research staff in state‑of‑the‑art cytometric instrumentation and techniques.
- To provide consultation and advice on flow cytometry experimental design and data analysis.
- To keep up to date with developments in the field and to propose or implement changes as necessary. This will include attending commercial tutorials, scientific meetings and/or conferences and academic seminars.
Working relationships: The post holder will report to the Head of the Flow Cytometry Facility. They will also work closely with users of the facility including facility staff, post‑doctoral scientists, graduate students, research support personnel, work experience students and external collaborators and colleagues. The post also requires some interaction with external service providers.
Person Specification:
Education / qualifications / training required:
- Essential: A degree in a scientific subject, with relevant work experience.
- Desirable: PhD in a relevant scientific field, or equivalent work experience.
Previous work experience required:
- Essential: Experience of working in a research laboratory with flow cytometer analysers and cell sorters.
- Desirable: Previous experience in a similar role within an academic core facility.
Knowledge and experience:
- Technical Knowledge/Experience:
- Essential: Theoretical and practical background in flow cytometry, including running and analysing samples on a sorter and analyser. Experience in understanding and interpreting the technical requirements of users within a scientific research environment. Experience with flow cytometry instrumentation computer software.
- Desirable: Experience with operating and troubleshooting jet‑in‑air cell sorters. Experience with high‑dimensional spectral cytometry or imaging cytometry. Experience in analysis of complex datasets using software such as R, Python, viSNE, OMIQ or FlowJo.
Independent working:
- Essential: Experience of working with little supervision. Good judgement in assessing when to seek support. Ability to act independently in solving technical problems.
- Desirable: Willingness to contribute to applications and methods development.
Verbal and written communication skills:
- Essential: Excellent communication skills, verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex technical issues in an accessible way. Experience in giving presentations or teaching/demonstrating technical subjects.
- Desirable: Experience with grant and proposal writing.
Personal skills / behaviours / qualities:
- Essential: Awareness of health and safety issues. Ability to manage time and work to strict deadlines. Able to take initiative, focused and well‑organised. Methodical and thorough, well organised and diligent. Good organisation and adaptability to regularly changing workloads. Ability to remain professional under conflicting demands.
- Desirable: Experience working in a Containment Level 2 (CL2) laboratory. Comfortable working under pressure. Interest in the development of pedagogical practices to improve understanding and practical knowledge in state‑of‑the‑art flow cytometry instrumentation and techniques.
Additional information: Flexible hours can be negotiated within reason and the needs of the Facility. Some degree of flexibility at either end of the normal working day would be very desirable.
Corporate Responsibilities: Code of Conduct, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy, Health and Safety policy, Data Protection policy. Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager. The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co‑operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI. The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re‑run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
Flow Cytometry Deputy Manager employer: MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and innovative work environment where scientific excellence thrives. As a Flow Cytometry Deputy Manager, you will benefit from flexible working hours, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to work alongside leading experts in the field, all while contributing to groundbreaking research that impacts global health. The LMB fosters a culture of inclusivity and support, ensuring that every team member can grow and excel in their career.
Contact Detail:
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Flow Cytometry Deputy Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the flow cytometry field, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, be ready to discuss your experience with specific cytometers and techniques. Share examples of how you've tackled challenges in the lab and contributed to projects—this will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply—engage! When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm. This shows initiative and helps you stay on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and communication skills. Be ready to explain complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to convey your expertise to a variety of audiences, from scientists to students.
We think you need these skills to ace Flow Cytometry Deputy Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Expertise:Make sure to highlight your experience with flow cytometry in your application. We want to see how you've used your skills in real-world scenarios, so don’t hold back on the details!
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Mention specific instruments and techniques you’ve worked with that match what we’re looking for. It shows us you’ve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language to explain your experiences and skills. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
✨Know Your Instruments
Make sure you’re familiar with the specific flow cytometers mentioned in the job description, like the ThermoFisher Bigfoot and Beckman Coulter CytoFLEX LX. Brush up on their functionalities and any common troubleshooting techniques, as this will show your technical expertise and readiness to jump right in.
✨Demonstrate Your Teaching Skills
Since training staff and users is a key part of the role, prepare to discuss your previous teaching or mentoring experiences. Think of examples where you successfully conveyed complex information in an accessible way, as this will highlight your communication skills and ability to support others.
✨Stay Current in the Field
Show that you’re proactive about keeping up with developments in flow cytometry. Mention any recent conferences, tutorials, or seminars you’ve attended, and be ready to discuss how you can implement new techniques or technologies in the facility.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and judgement in technical situations. Think of scenarios where you had to troubleshoot equipment or manage time-sensitive experiments, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
