Technician: Research (Molecular Biology) in Sheffield

Technician: Research (Molecular Biology)

Apply for the Technician: Research (Molecular Biology) role at The University of Sheffield.

Overview

Dr Stuart Casson, Dr Dan Bose and Prof Julie Gray are looking to appoint a talented and dedicated Technician to join a BBSRC funded project investigating carbon dioxide signalling in plants. The role involves working alongside a post‑doctoral researcher and collaborating with research partners at Bath and Bristol to explore the impact of rising atmospheric CO2 on plant crops, focusing on a novel long non‑coding RNA that regulates stomatal and leaf cell responses.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Assisting with laboratory experiments.
• Growth, maintenance and analysis of experimental plant material.
• Tissue collection and molecular and biochemical analysis of plant material.
• Maintain accurate and reliable written and electronic records of obtained data.
• Deliver technical training to others in the use of materials, equipment, tools and processes.
• Facilitate the smooth running of the research group.
• Assist with writing‑up experimental results, analysing results and preparing figures.
• Plan and work safely at all times, complying with health and safety legislation and regulations.
• Perform investigations and experimentation using appropriate tools, equipment, techniques and procedures.
• Ensure all activities are undertaken using correct processes and methodologies, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Carry out other duties as required.

Person Specification

• Experience equivalent to Level 3 (BTEC/A Level) qualification in a biological science related subject, with proven vocational skills.
• Experience in molecular biology and ideally plant biology.
• Excellent organisational, communication and record‑keeping skills.
• Ability to assess and organise resources, plan and progress laboratory work activities.
• Experience working within a research team and aligning day‑to‑day work with research objectives.
• Proficiency with computer software, scientific databases and online resources.
• Work with minimal supervision, efficiently and effectively at all times, maintaining workplace organisation and minimising waste.
• Excellent communication skills to convey technical information clearly to diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of planning techniques, time management, workflow, scheduling and record keeping.
• Laboratory experience with plant research.
• Knowledge of relevant Health & Safety systems, policies and legislation for laboratory work, including work with genetically modified organisms.

Essential Criteria

1. Experience equivalent to Level 3 in a biological science subject.
2. Experience in molecular biology.
3. Ability to assess, organise resources and plan laboratory work.
4. Experience working within a research team.
5. Proficiency with computer software and scientific databases.
6. Ensure activities are undertaken with correct processes, ensuring quality and compliance.
7. Work with minimal supervision, maintaining organisation and minimising waste.
8. Excellent communication skills.
9. Knowledge of planning techniques, time management, workflow and records.
10. Laboratory experience with plant research.

Desirable Criteria

1. Knowledge of Health & Safety systems, policies and legislation for laboratory work, including work with genetically modified organisms.

Salary and Working Arrangement

Salary: £27,319 – £28,778 per annum, pro rata (part‑time 17.5 hours per week).

Working arrangement: Part‑time (17.5 hours per week), flexible working pattern considered in line with business need and work demands.

Duration: Fixed‑term to 31 July 2028.

Line manager: Senior lecturer, Dr Stuart Casson.

Benefits

• A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• Staff networks: Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parents’ networks.
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond.
• A commitment to your development: access to learning and mentoring schemes; Technical Career Route.
• Family‑friendly policies:
  • Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
  • Support for menopause
  • Paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • and more

Next Steps

We anticipate that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date. It will consist of an interview, tour of the lab and informal meeting with colleagues. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process, please contact bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk.

EEO Statement

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.