At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team investigating immune responses using advanced infection models.
- Company: Dynamic university department with a focus on innovative biosciences research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional development and public engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in infection biology and antimicrobial resistance research.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in Biological Sciences or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 30878 - 32080 £ per year.
This full-time, fixed term Research Technician post is available from 1st October 2026 until 31st March 2028. The starting salary will be £30,878 (Grade D21) depending on knowledge, skills and experience.
The Faculty wishes to recruit a Research Technician to join an exciting BBSRC-funded research programme investigating immune responses to clinically important bacterial and fungal pathogens using the wax moth Galleria mellonella as an advanced infection model. The post is based within the Department of Biosciences and the Living Systems Institute and will support a multidisciplinary research programme spanning infection biology, molecular genetics, genome engineering and transgenesis.
The successful applicant will provide specialist technical expertise essential to the delivery of the project. Working closely with academic staff, postdoctoral researchers and collaborators, you will maintain wild-type, transgenic and genome-edited Galleria lines, ensuring the consistent supply of healthy insects for experimental research. You will contribute to laboratory operations, undertaking infection biology and molecular biology procedures, assisting with transgenic and genome-editing workflows, and contributing to the generation of high-quality research data. You will support the development of innovative research methodologies and help deliver project objectives within a collaborative and internationally recognised research environment.
The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to contribute to the activities of the Galleria mellonella Research Centre (GMRC), including training activities, protocol development, workshops and public engagement initiatives.
You will hold a degree, HND, HNC or equivalent qualification in Biological Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology or a related discipline, or possess substantial relevant laboratory experience. You will have experience working within a biological research environment and a strong commitment to technical excellence and data quality.
You will have experience in the following areas:
- Galleria mellonella husbandry and colony maintenance
- Infection biology and pathogen challenge experiments
- Molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction and PCR
- Flow cytometry-based laboratory procedures
- Maintenance of biological stocks and laboratory model organisms
- Biological containment laboratory working practices
- Research data management and laboratory record keeping
You will be highly organised, attentive to detail and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative and inclusive research team.
What We offer:
- The opportunity to contribute to a major BBSRC-funded programme addressing important challenges in infection biology and antimicrobial resistance research.
- A role within the internationally recognised research environment of the Department of Biosciences and Living Systems Institute.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies supporting molecular biology, infection biology and genomics research.
- Opportunities to develop further specialist expertise in Galleria mellonella research, genome engineering and advanced infection models.
- A supportive and collaborative research culture committed to technical excellence and staff development.
- A comprehensive range of University benefits, including generous annual leave, pension provision and family-friendly policies.
- The chance to live and work in Exeter, a vibrant and historic city surrounded by outstanding natural landscapes.
Please be advised that due to the minimum salary thresholds imposed by the UKVI, this post will not qualify for university sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. If you are a migrant worker, you will need to ensure you have a visa which permits the right to work in the UK.
Research Technician in Exeter employer: UAG
Queen Mary University of London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters academic excellence and innovation. With opportunities for professional development and the unique experience of teaching in both London and Hainan, China, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact on students' academic journeys.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician in Exeter
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like UAG. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like UAG!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show UAG that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at UAG.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that UAG does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at UAG
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at UAG. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into UAG's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at UAG. This shows your passion for the industry!
