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- Tasks: Join a team analysing drinking water systems and make a real impact on public health.
- Company: University of Sheffield, a leader in interdisciplinary research.
- Benefits: Flexible working opportunities, professional development, and a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Use your lab skills to improve drinking water quality and engage with industry partners.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree in Molecular Biology or Environmental Microbiology with lab experience.
- Other info: Diverse team culture that values collaboration and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
Are you a molecular biologist or environmental microbiologist who wants to see your laboratory skills make a tangible impact on drinking water quality and public health? We have an opportunity for you to join an applied interdisciplinary research team at the University of Sheffield as a Research Assistant in Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water Systems. The role offers the chance to apply and further develop technical expertise, while supporting delivery of research with relevance and impact beyond the laboratory.
Responsibilities
- Work on the EPSRC-funded project “To Chlorinate or Not To Chlorinate” and industry-supported projects, analysing biofilms and bulk-water samples from varied drinking water assets.
- Generate high-quality molecular data from environmental and low-biomass samples, including DNA extraction, gene quantification (e.g. ddPCR) and sequencing library preparation using established protocols.
- Perform initial data processing and quality control, maintain structured experimental records and help build well-curated project datasets.
- Use complementary analytical techniques such as assimilable organic carbon (AOC) quantification and flow cytometry to generate multi-parameter datasets that support interpretation of microbial behaviour in engineered systems.
- Assist with field sampling activities and engage with water sector partners, providing insight into how laboratory findings can inform engineering and operational practice.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Environmental Microbiology, or a related field, with practical laboratory experience.
- Experience working with complex environmental or low-biomass samples.
- Comfortable with managing quantitative information, maintaining accurate records, and working both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
Opportunities
You will become part of a motivating research environment that values collaboration, careful experimentation, and professional development. This role would suit an organised, motivated researcher who enjoys laboratory work, takes pride in data integrity, and wants to further develop skills in environmental molecular microbiology within a research-intensive setting.
We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University. We form teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to the greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.
Research Assistant in Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water Systems in Sheffield employer: University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water Systems in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of microbial analysis and environmental microbiology. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy to ask questions or seek advice. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your laboratory work, especially any projects related to drinking water systems. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and helps demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of current trends in microbial analysis and water quality. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to projects like 'To Chlorinate or Not To Chlorinate'. We want to see your passion for making an impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water Systems in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in molecular biology or environmental microbiology. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your lab work and any projects that relate to drinking water systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about improving drinking water quality and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Be specific about your technical expertise, especially in areas like DNA extraction and sequencing. We’re looking for candidates who can generate high-quality data, so mention any relevant techniques you’ve mastered that would benefit our research.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Microbial Stuff
Brush up on your knowledge of molecular biology and environmental microbiology. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like DNA extraction and ddPCR, as well as your experience with low-biomass samples. Showing that you understand the technical aspects will impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Lab Skills
Prepare to talk about your practical laboratory experience in detail. Highlight any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving biofilms or water quality analysis. Use examples to demonstrate how your skills can contribute to the research team's goals.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration
This role involves working with an interdisciplinary team and engaging with water sector partners. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past, and express your enthusiasm for working in a team-oriented environment. It’s all about showing you can fit into their culture!
✨Prepare Questions About the Research
Have some thoughtful questions ready about the EPSRC-funded project 'To Chlorinate or Not To Chlorinate' and other ongoing research. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can make a meaningful impact within the team.