Reserach Technician: Molecular technology development

Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; England; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Part time

Job summary

A global leader in science and technology is seeking a Research Technician to support molecular technology development in Basel. The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in relevant fields and will work closely with laboratory members on various projects. Key responsibilities include molecular cloning, cell line maintenance, and viral vector production. The role offers a collaborative and inclusive environment, contributing to cutting-edge research in the biomedical field.

Benefits

Inclusive culture and equal opportunity environment

Access to international environment in Basel

Qualifications

• Completing biology laboratory technician apprenticeship or Master's degree in relevant fields.
• Effective communication in English within an interdisciplinary environment.
• Motivated to collaborate with multi-disciplinary scientists.

Responsibilities

• Conduct molecular cloning and preparation of plasmid DNA.
• Maintain and transfect standard mammalian cell lines.
• Produce and purify lentivirus and adeno-associated virus.

Skills

Molecular cloning

Flow cytometry

Mammalian cell lines maintenance

CRISPR technologies

Mouse models handling

Education

Master's degree or equivalent in Molecular Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field

Tools

Excel

Geneious

Prism

Adobe Illustrator

Job description

Overview

Research Technician: Molecular technology development – The Laboratory for Biological Engineering (Prof. Randall J Platt) of ETH Zurich in Basel, Switzerland develops genome engineering technologies and applies them to fundamental and disease-focused areas. The Platt group is recruiting a part-time (at least 60%) or full-time (100%) research technician to support ongoing experimental efforts.

Project background

We are looking for a research technician to work with scientists in the laboratory on ongoing projects related to molecular technology development, CRISPR technologies, pooled screening, viral vectors, and mouse models. The candidate will work closely with laboratory members to aid in planning and running experiments.

Responsibilities

• molecular cloning (PCR, classic restriction enzyme cloning, Golden-Gate Assembly and Gibson assembly)
• preparation of plasmid DNA from E. coli
• maintenance and transfection of standard mammalian cell lines
• flow cytometry
• production and purification of lentivirus and adeno-associated virus
• titration of these respective viruses by functional titration, qPCR or droplet digital PCR
• preparation of DNA libraries for high-throughput sequencing
• other common tasks of molecular and cellular biology

Research technician duties may also involve mouse models, including husbandry, injections, tissue dissection, and cell or nuclei isolation.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have at least completed the apprenticeship for a biology laboratory technician OR a Master’s degree or equivalent in Molecular Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, Structural Biology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, or a related field. The candidate must be able to communicate effectively in a highly interdisciplinary and international environment, including mastery of oral and written English. The candidate should be passionate about science, technology, collaboration, and communication, with strong motivation to collaborate with multi-disciplinary scientists.

Extensive prior experience with contemporary methods in molecular and cellular biology (including the duties listed above) is essential. Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and at least one cloning (e.g., Geneious) and plotting (e.g., Prism) software is essential. Prior experience with illustration software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, BioRender) is a plus. Prior experience with mouse models is a plus but not required.

Workplace

The position is located in the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) of ETH Zurich in Basel, Switzerland. The D-BSSE is an interdisciplinary department focused on systems and synthetic biology, bioinformatics and data science, and engineering sciences related to microfluidics and microfabrication. It sits within a biomedical research hub with links to institutions and industry partners.

We offer

ETH Zurich is a global leader in science and technology. The department collaborates with nearby institutes and industry partners. The city of Basel offers an international environment with access to arts, nature, and European travel. The position supports an inclusive culture and equal opportunity environment as described by ETH Zurich.

Application process

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Cover letter contextualizing your scientific background, skills, and interests and why you are interested in the group
• CV
• Diplomas and course transcripts
• Contact details of at least two referees

Please note that applications are accepted exclusively through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Platt ([e-mail]) with no applications.