Research Technician

University of Dundee; Dundee; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious academic institution in Scotland is seeking a motivated Research Technician to join their lab focusing on the cellular mechanisms of motor neuron disease and dementia. The role entails conducting molecular work, including PCR and protein purification, as well as working with both human cells and Drosophila models. Candidates should have experience in Biochemistry, molecular biology, and a keen eye for detail. This is a fixed-term appointment for 6 months.

Qualifications

• Experience in Biochemistry and molecular biology is required.
• Candidate must have a high level of motivation and organizational skills.
• Familiarity with Drosophila models is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct molecular work including PCR and immunoblotting.
• Express and purify recombinant human proteins.
• Culture human cells and work with Drosophila models of disease.
• Collaborate with team members as necessary.

Skills

Biochemistry

Molecular biology

Attention to detail

Drosophila experience

Tools

PCR

Protein purification

Job description

Posted on 2 February 2026 | Reference: UOD2113

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee is a world-class academic institution with a reputation for the excellence of its research, its high quality teaching and student experience, and the strong impact of its activities outside academia. With 900 staff from over 40 countries worldwide the School provides a dynamic, multi-national, collegiate and diverse environment with state-of-the-art laboratory, technology and teaching facilities.

We are recruiting for an exceptional individual to join us as a Research Technician within our Group, to work on the cellular basis of motor neuron disease and dementia. The McGurk lab has identified novel candidate proteins that regulate disease features of motor neuron disease and dementia. The goal is to validate these candidate proteins as potential drug targets and elucidate their mode of action. To do this the McGurk lab combines studies in the fruit fly with human cells and purified protein. This is a fixed-term appointment for 6 months.

We are seeking a technician to work as part of a small team to undertake research on the cellular basis of motor neuron disease. The post holder will provide technical assistance to the lab which will include PCR, protein purification and may also include assisting with drosophila husbandry and genetics and or human cell culture.

Please note that applications made on a part-time basis for this role will not be considered.

Your priorities will include:

• Molecular work (real-time PCR and immunoblotting).
• Expressing and purifying recombinant human proteins.
• Culturing of human cells.
• Working with Drosophila models of disease.
• Collaborate with team members as needed.

Who we're looking for:

• Experience in Biochemistry, molecular biology.
• Highly motivated, organized and excellent attention to detail.
• Experience with Drosophila.

For further information about this position please contact Leeanne McGurk, MCDB, School of Life Sciences.

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