Research Technician

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.

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.

• 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

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.

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.…