At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic lab to explore cancer evolution and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Company: Be part of UCL's innovative Jamal-Hanjani Lab, renowned for its collaborative spirit.
- Benefits: Gain invaluable experience in molecular biology and access to a vast professional network.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for career development in a multi-disciplinary team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while growing as a scientist in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field and strong practical skills in molecular biology required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking a collaborative and self‑motivated laboratory technician with prior laboratory experience in molecular biology and genomics to participate in the running of the LUMES (LUng cancer Metastasis Evolutionary Studies) project. LUMES builds on the national PEACE research autopsy programme and will explore cancer evolution, metastatic migration, tumour plasticity, the tumour microenvironment and drug resistance using single cell technologies.
Prof. Mariam Jamal-Hanjani is Chief Investigator of the PEACE study. The Jamal-Hanjani Lab is a multi‑disciplinary group of passionate and determined individuals who will provide the successful candidate with a stimulating and conducive environment to participate and grow as a scientist. The research in the lab is conducted in close collaboration with local and international scientists and clinicians, across the TRACERx, TRACERx EVO and PEACE consortia and the CRUK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence. These collaborative environments will provide the successful candidate with opportunities to learn from a large network of talented professionals.
The role will be available for 4 years in the first instance. Applications should include a CV and a Cover Letter: In the Cover Letter please provide evidence of the essential and desirable criteria in the Person Specification part of the Job Description.
This role does not meet the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa certificate of sponsorship under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL will not be able to sponsor individuals who require right to work in the UK to carry out this role.
- Degree in a relevant subject or appropriate experience
- Excellent practical molecular biology skills and experience
- Excellent knowledge of NGS technologies and applications, in particular, those used in the field of single cell genomics and transcriptomics
- Experience with laboratory automation and high throughput methods
- Ability to work both as a team member and independently under minimal supervision
- Single cell Next Generation Sequencing experience is desirable but not essential
The nature of running the sequencing equipment requires occasional out‑of‑hours working. The post holder will therefore need to show willingness to work flexibly when deemed necessary by the service head.
Research Technician / Scientific Officer employer: UCL
At UCL, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters scientific innovation and personal growth. As part of the LUMES project, you will engage with a diverse team of passionate professionals, gaining invaluable experience in cutting-edge research while contributing to significant advancements in cancer studies. Our commitment to employee development, coupled with our strong network of local and international collaborations, ensures that you will thrive both personally and professionally in this stimulating role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician / Scientific Officer
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at UCL, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like UCL. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician / Scientific Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at UCL. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at UCL. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at UCL. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at UCL to drive research projects forward.
