Senior Research Technician

You will provide technical expertise, support and guidance in research support.  You may supervise a number of technical staff but even where you do not directly supervise staff you will still be expected to act as a role model and coach others as appropriate.

You will need an in-depth understanding of the techniques and experimental protocols. Experience of cancer cell models would be preferable. You will be able to use your in-depth knowledge to advise on procedures, diagnose and resolve problems, and proactively suggest solutions to issues which arise.  You may need to operate out of normal working hours to accommodate experimental procedures.

In order to flexibly use resource you may be offered the opportunity to work in different areas of the Institute or College or wider university.

Main Duties

The role holder will provide support for the research undertaken by Dr da Silva Xavier and other researchers within the Women’s Metabolic Health Theme using a variety of techniques to include, but not exclusively:

• Molecular biology
  • PCR, quantative and non- quantative
  • Western blotting
  • Gene expression assays
  • Cell extracts and Isolation of RNA/DNA/proteins from cells/tissue
• ELISA
• Competitive binding assays
• Preparation of samples and knowledge of the following:
  • Mass spectrometry
  • NMR
• Histology
  • Sample preparation and sectioning cryo and paraffin
  • Immunohistochemistry

Person Specification

• Extensive relevant workplace experience, equivalent professional qualification or degree in an appropriate subject.
• GCSE level 2 (A*- C) or equivalent level 2 qualification in mathematics and English.
• In-depth practical knowledge of relevant technical and scientific methods stated above
• Extensive proven experience of similar laboratory based work, together with familiarity with a wide range of laboratory equipment.
• Positive service attitude and shows courtesy in dealing with others.
• Ability to organise and manage own work load and demonstrate flexibility in terms of work practices/requirements.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision but function as part of a team.
• Knowledge of current legislation relevant to the role.
• Knowledge of current H&S policies and ability to uphold same.
• Understanding of the Human Tissue Act and working to GLP standards
• Proficiency in commonly used software packages.
• Understands the importance of equality and diversity in the workplace
• Ability to identify and respond to equality and diversity issues in line with relevant policies and procedures

Informal enquires can be made to Carol Benham c.a.benham@bham.ac.uk

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

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