LMS 2519 Research Technician – Metabolism in Immunity, Cancer and Ageing

Job Description

Overall purpose:

A new opportunity has arisen for a Research Technician in the Metabolism in Immunity, Cancer and Ageing (MICA) group headed by Dr Nazma Malik.

Main duties / key responsibilities:

• Participate in laboratory experiments aimed at understanding the influence of metabolism in immunity, particularly cancer immune responses
• Working as part of a small dynamic team and under the guidance of Dr Malik, you will provide support to the MICA group
• Application of molecular cloning techniques to generate selection of DNA constructs
• Employ Crispr/Cas9 methods for generation of knock out/knock in cell lines
• Routine maintenance of tissue culture cells lines
• Undertake molecular and cellular biology experiments where necessary (PCR, qPCR, Western blotting and imaging)
• Provide support with ordering, lab stocks and organization of spaces, as well as ensuring that equipment/apparatus/systems etc in MICA group are maintained, serviced and repaired as required

The appointee will:

• Conduct research as part of the group’s core program
• Demonstrate strong motivation, ability to work independently and in a team
• Take an active part in the academic activities of the Group including group meetings, group journal clubs, training and organisational aspects

This is an MRC funded and laboratory-based position to support other scientists in early or changed career training and to help establish them as successful research scientists in their chosen field. We offer a highly attractive benefits package including competitive salary and excellent holiday entitlement.

Working relationships:

The post-holder will report directly to Dr Malik.

Person Specification

Education / Qualifications / Training required (will be assessed from application form):

Essential:

• BSc (or equivalent) qualification in biological sciences, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology or related discipline

Desirable:

• MSc, MRes or PhD in biochemistry, molecular or cell biology in cancer, immunology or a related discipline

Previous work experience required (will be assessed from application form and at interview):

Essential:

• Proficiency in molecular cloning techniques including conventional and Gateway Recombination, TOPO etc
• Understanding and experience of Crispr/Cas9 approahces to edit or perturb genes including knock outs and knock ins
• Experience in biochemical techniques such as western blotting, DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR etc
• Tissue culture experience and handling of cell lines
• Background in biochemistry and metabolic, cancer and/or immune signalling
• Good written communication skills in English

Desirable:

• Experience in imaging and image analysis
• Proteomics experience
• RNAseq and bioinformatics experience
• Experience of working with in vivo mouse models

Personal skills / Behaviours / Qualities (will be assessed at interview):

Essential:

• Good verbal communication skills in English
• Excellent organisational ability to support lab maintenance
• High level of motivation and drive
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability and eagerness to learn new concepts and acquire new skills in biology quickly, and to seek novel and creative solutions to scientific problems

Further Information

Applicants should submit a CV, a brief cover letter describing scientific interests and names and contacts of two scientific references. Please quote reference number LMS 2519.

Applications without a supporting covering letter will not be considered.