Research Technician

The University of Glasgow; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 31,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Leave entitlement (41 days for full‑t­

Pension

Flexible working

Health and wellbeing

Job summary

The University of Glasgow invites applications for a part-time Research Technician in the Babina Lab, supporting molecular microbiology and bacterial genetics research. The role focuses on wet and dry lab work, data management, and staff supervision under Dr Arianne Babina.

Essential experience includes microbiology techniques, data analysis, and strong attention to safety and documentation. The post emphasizes teamwork, training, and collaboration across research teams.

Qualifications

• Essential: Molecular biology and microbiology techniques.
• Essential: Health and safety compliance.
• Desirable: Bioinformatics knowledge.
• Desirable: Programming in Python or R.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical and research support for wet and dry lab experiments.
• Supervise and train staff and students.
• Maintain data records and databases.
• Manage laboratory stock and safety procedures.
• Collaborate in team meetings and departmental activities.

Skills

Molecular biology

Microbiology

Lab techniques

PCR

Molecular cloning

Data analysis

Bioinformatics

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

SCQF Level 7

Health & Safety knowledge

BSc Degree

Tools

PCR machine

Bioinformatics databases

Microsoft Office

Job description

Please note this vacancy is open to current University of Glasgow employees only.

The School of Infection and Immunity is seeking an experienced Research Technician to support research activities in molecular microbiology and bacterial genetics under the supervision of Dr Arianne Babina (Principal Investigator).

The Babina Lab uses microbiology, molecular genetics, biochemistry, experimental evolution, and large-scale "-omics" approaches to investigate how novel bacterial gene regulatory networks emerge and evolve to help bacteria rapidly adapt to environmental challenges, with a focus on antimicrobial resistance and pathogen evolution.

Job Purpose

The postholder will provide technical expertise in molecular microbiology and bacterial genetics, contributing to wet and dry lab experiments, lab management, and supervision and training of team members to support ongoing research. They will contribute to short-term research projects and collaborate as part of larger research teams. Additionally, they will perform a range of technical support activities aligned with the School’s research strategy.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• 1. Provide technical and research support for ongoing wet and dry research projects in the lab.
• 2. Undertake computational analysis of experimental datasets to support research objectives.
• 3. In liaison with the PI, advise, implement and evaluate improvements to existing protocols relevant as required.
• 4. Collect, analyse and interpret data using standard experimental and computational methods and ensure that accurate research records are kept, and databases are updated accordingly.
• 5. Plan and organise day to day work to ensure that the experimental goals are delivered within previously agreed timescales.
• 6. To supervise junior staff, where appropriate, and instruct, train and provide guidance to research staff and students in the techniques and operation of equipment and apparatus as directed by the supervisor, lab manager or PI.
• 7. Contribute to the well organised functioning of the laboratory by assisting the PI in maintaining equipment, managing stock levels, and purchasing consumables and supplies within budget, in coordination with other group members.
• 8. In consultation with the PI and floor coordinator, ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the laboratory area and facilities. This includes, but is not limited to, supporting the completion of risk assessments and COSHH assessments, ensuring that all Health and Safety paperwork is completed timeously and recorded accurately, and implementing and adhering to health and safety policies, as determined by the University and the Health and Safety Executive.
• 9. Collaborate with colleagues and participate in team meetings/discussions and departmental research group activities.
• 10. Keep up to date with advancements in technology and methodology, continually updating technical knowledge.
• 11. Be aware of and comply with Equality and Diversity policies of the University of Glasgow. The above duties are not exhaustive, and the post-holder will be required to undertake any other relevant duties as required by the PI/line manager which are commensurate with the grade of the post.

Knowledge/Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Knowledge/Qualifications

Essential:

• A1. Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 7 (Advanced Higher / HNC, SVQ 3), or equivalent in relevant science subject.
• A2. Detailed technical knowledge of molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and bacterial genetics.
• A3. Up to date knowledge of relevant laboratory Health and Safety legislation.

Desirable:

• B1. Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 9 (BSc Degree, SVQ Level 4) or equivalent in relevant scientific discipline.
• B2. Background or experience in bioinformatics, computational biology, or related fields.
• B3. Knowledge of Equality and Diversity policy.

Skills

Essential:

• C1. Experience in practical laboratory techniques in molecular biology and microbiology, including reagent and media preparation, sterile technique, bacterial culture and transformation, PCR, and molecular cloning.
• C2. Computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office, relevant biological databases, and basic bioinformatics/webtools for exploring genomic and protein sequences and protein structures.
• C3. Demonstrable analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• C4. Proven interpersonal and communication skills.
• C5. Numeracy and literacy skills.
• C6. A high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• C7. Excellent organisational and time management skills and an ability to prioritise workload to meet competing demands.
• C8. Use of initiative and judgement to resolve problems independently.
• C9. Ability to work individually and as part of a team.

Desirable:

• D1. Some experience in analysing and interpreting biological or molecular data using computational tools.
• D2. Familiarity with a programming language used in biological data analysis, such as Python or R.

Experience

Essential:

• E1. Extensive relevant work experience (i.e. greater than 1 month) in a research laboratory setting.
• E2. Proficient in core molecular biology and microbiology techniques, including the preparation of reagents and media, as well as expertise in sterile technique, bacterial culture and transformation, PCR, and molecular cloning.
• E3. Experience using computer-based resources and biological databases to access and analyse biological information, such as genomic and protein sequences and protein structures.
• E4. Demonstrated ability to rapidly learn, execute, troubleshoot, and adapt experimental protocols and/or computational workflows effectively.

Desirable:

• F1. Demonstrated leadership experience, such as the ability to train and supervise others.
• F2. Familiarity with established bioinformatics pipelines and computational methods for biological data analysis.

Terms and Conditions

Salary will be Grade 5, £28,031 - £31,236 per annum pro rata.

This post is part time (28 hours per week) and fixed term up to 20th August 2027.

Please Note:

The University would consider a secondment opportunity for this post. Applicants should seek clearance for release for secondment from their line manager before making a formal application.

This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa route. Candidates must therefore have an existing right to work in the UK or be able to secure this independently prior to commencing employment. For further information on alternative immigration options, please visit University of Glasgow's UKVI Website.

Benefits

• 1 A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared.
• 2 An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension, benefits and discount packages.
• 3 A flexible approach to working.
• 4 A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6-month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University.

We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented within the University. Read more on how the University promotes and embeds all aspects of equality and diversity within our community here.

We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University.

We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too. Please visit our website https://www.gla.ac.uk/explore/jobs/ for more information.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Arianne Babina, [e-mail]

Closing Date: 5th November 2026 at 23:45.