Senior Technician: Research; Genomics Facility

Senior Technician:
Research (Genomics Facility)

• Posting
  
  Start Date:
  
  27/10/2026
• Job
• School/Department:
  Biosciences
• Work Arrangement:
  Full Time (On site)
• Contract Type:
  Fixed-term
• Salary per annum (£): £32,722 - £37,369
• Closing Date: 10/11/2026

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A highly skilled and experienced Senior Research Laboratory Technician is sought for the Genomics Facility in the School of Biosciences at the University of Sheffield. The Senior Technician will be instrumental in performing complex laboratory analyses for Facility users, providing expert training to other members of the team, and driving innovation in cutting‑edge molecular and genomic techniques. The Facility is dedicated to advancing research in environmental, ecological, and evolutionary biology, leveraging exceptional expertise in genome sequencing, marker analysis, population genomics, metabarcoding, and environmental DNA (eDNA) detection and interpretation.

The successful candidate will be responsible for processing often challenging samples, including subsequent data analysis, developing novel molecular and genomic protocols, and ensuring the seamless operation of the laboratory, particularly in the absence of the Laboratory Manager. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying and implementing next‑generation tools, providing sophisticated intellectual input into research projects, and contributing significantly to the strategic development and operational efficiency of the Facility.

• Act as a primary technical expert, offering sophisticated advice and intellectual input to Facility users, and colleagues working on complex molecular ecology projects, particularly regarding next‑generation sequencing applications.
• Deliver and design comprehensive technical training and support in advanced molecular and genomic techniques to Facility users.
• Lead the identification, evaluation, and implementation of cutting‑edge next‑generation molecular and genomic tools and methodologies, ensuring the Facility remains at the forefront of research capabilities. This includes:
• Developing and refining novel laboratory protocols and writing and submitting them to platforms such as Protocols.io to disseminate best practice.
• Performing complex investigations and experimentation to optimise existing techniques and establish new ones.
• Independently perform challenging molecular analyses, including the processing of large numbers of samples and subsequent data analysis using Facility pipelines. The technician needs to be able to identify and, where necessary, develop appropriate bespoke protocols.
• Take significant responsibility for the day‑to‑day operational running of the laboratory including, but not restricted to, ensuring the laboratory is fully stocked with consumables and supplies as required, particularly during the Laboratory Manager’s absence.
• Proactively identify and resolve routine and non‑routine technical problems, applying advanced diagnostic methods and contributing to solutions for complex issues.
• Critically evaluate methodologies, results, and problems, assessing their implications for ongoing research and laboratory…