Research Technician (77486) Liverpool, England
Job description
Salary: £27,396 - £31,502 per annum (starting salary will be £27,396 p.a.)
Full-time, Fixed term from 1st July 2023 until 30 June 2024
The Department of Vector Biology at LSTM is one of the largest of its kind with a broad portfolio of research and technical assistance activities targeted at improving the control of insect-borne diseases. Dr David Weetman in the Department of Vector Biology is recruiting for a Research Technician to join the team to provide molecular biology and insectary support to a range of research projects.
The role will involve supporting researchers in the group by using molecular biology and biochemical techniques and via insectary work rearing, maintaining and testing mosquito colonies. The work will be Liverpool-based with opportunities for travel to Kenya to support capacity development.
Key Responsibilities are (but not limited to):
- Maintain an array of mosquito lines and ensure there is a steady supply of mosquitoes for experiments
- Perform insecticide resistance testing including work on volatile insecticides using PEET-Grady chambers
- Catalogue samples arriving from external sources
- Follow standard and published protocols for DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, and quantitative PCR; adapting and optimising as necessary
- Prepare samples and perform High Performance Liquid Chromatography assays to quantify insecticides, primarily in treated bednets
- Assist with the planning and organisation of resources for the smooth running of the laboratory, including overseeing the ordering of apparatus, equipment components and materials
- Provide initial analysis of data and draft sections of reports and manuscripts for funders, external collaborators and journal submissions under guidance of line manager
The Candidate:
- BSc in Biological Science or science related subject (or equivalent experience)
- Good knowledge of general principles of molecular biology
- Experience of conducting scientific experiments
- Hands on experience of general molecular biology techniques
- Good numeracy skills with the ability to collate data and accurately conduct basic data analysis, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail
- Ability to implement and adapt biological techniques or protocols
- Ability to contribute to the identification and communication of new research techniques
(For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification)
Informal enquiries can be made to [email protected]
Closing Date: 2nd June 2023
Application Process: To apply for the position please follow the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter.
Please note, if we receive the quality of applications we're looking for, we may close the position earlier than the date advertised. We advise submitting your application as soon as possible, to avoid disappointment.
Inclusion is central to our values at LSTM.
We seek to attract and recruit people who reflect the diversity across our communities, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, nationality, faith or belief, social background, age and disability. LSTM selects candidates based on skills, qualifications, and experience.
We welcome conversations about flexible working; and applications from those returning to employment after a break from their careers.
About LSTM
Founded in 1898 and the oldest of its kind in the world, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through the creation of effective links with governments, NGOs, private organisations and global institutions and by responding to the health needs of communities, LSTM aims to promote improved health, particularly for disadvantaged populations.
Look at some of the great work we have achieved over the past year by viewing our annual report: LSTM Annual Report 2021-2022 | LSTM (lstmed.ac.uk)
LSTM actively promotes Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding Policies
