Research Technician

University of York; Heslington; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

The Mackinder Lab at University of York is seeking a dedicated lab technician to support projects on CO2 uptake in algae and cyanobacteria. You will help run robotic platforms for automation of molecular biology workflows, assist in algae propagation, cloning and data analysis, and help maintain a safe, well-organized lab environment.

Applicants should show attention to detail, good time management, and strong teamwork.

Qualifications

• Experience with algae and/or plant growth is desirable.
• Experience establishing and running molecular biology workflows.
• Ability to manage own time, meet deadlines and seek guidance when needed.
• Maintain a safe, clean lab environment and follow COSHH risk assessments.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work with staff and students.

Responsibilities

• Support setup and operation of robotic platforms for automation of molecular biology and algal screening workflows.
• Assist in algal propagation, cloning, selection of fluorescently labelled lines, confocal imaging, protein purification, and data analysis.
• Maintain lab safety, ordering and distributing goods.

Skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Algae/plant growth experience

Molecular biology workflows

Professional development

Interpersonal communication

Adaptability / resilience

Job description

Department

The Mackinder Lab (www.mackinderlab.weebly.com) is looking to recruit a highly motivated, organised and diligent lab technician to support ongoing projects on CO2 uptake in algae and cyanobacteria. The project is based in the Department of Biology, University of York.

Role

The successful candidate will play a core role in supporting multiple projects in the lab that are exploring, understanding and engineering algal CO2 fixation. The candidate will provide technical support and be involved in routine parts of the projects including supporting the set-up and running of robotic platforms for automation of molecular biology and algal screening workflows, algal propagation, cloning, selection of fluorescently labelled lines, confocal imaging, protein purification, and data analysis. They will assist in the smooth running of the lab, maintaining a clean and safe working environment, promote and apply relevant COSHH/risk assessments, help with general administrative tasks and aid in ordering and distributing goods.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• Ability to perform practical tasks to a consistently high standard with attention to detail
• Ability to manage own time, use initiative, work to deadlines and seek advice where necessary
• Experience of algae and/or plant growth (desirable)
• Experience of establishing and running molecular biology workflows
• Actively demonstrate commitment to professional development, advance knowledge, understanding & competencies
• Dependable, reliable and self-motivated
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with staff & students
• Maintain a positive, open attitude toward others, to value and support colleagues, to adapt to change quickly and easily and demonstrate personal resilience

Thank you,

Please note, examples used in the standard application questions can be reused or expanded on in the job specific questions.

This is a full-time role offered on a 24-month fixed-term contract.

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Luke Mackinder ([e-mail]).