Laboratory Technician (Fixed Term)

The Galliano laboratory (https://gallianolab.org/) is a recently-funded neuroscience group based at the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. Our research focuses on investigating how brain cells change in response to altered sensory inputs, and how such changes in brain cells underpin adaptation, learning and memory at the behavioural level. We use mice as model systems, and we probe the brain networks that encode their sense of smell. We are an inclusive, diverse and welcoming group, committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all members. We believe in open-science, and all members are encouraged to participate in science outreach activities.

Project summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and proactive laboratory technician to assist in managing our expanding research operations. We will provide comprehensive mentoring and career development opportunities to facilitate your technical and managerial growth. 

You will be responsible for operational running of the laboratory and support core experimental activities. You will serve as the primary manager for our histology and microscopy suites, as well as our animal colony. Responsibilities will include managing our animal colony, inventory and stock management, procurement of equipment and consumables (including forecasting use). You will be responsible for maintenance of lab equipment, schedule services and coordinate technician visits, and you will act as point of contact for health and safety and operational matters including oversight of laboratory health and safety training and documentation. You will assist in training undergraduate project students, and you will contribute to the operational strategy for the lab and in scientific discussions. Attention to detail is essential, along with collaborative teamwork skills, and outstanding multitasking and time management abilities. 

Key experience and competencies

Candidates should:

• Be educated to a BSc level or higher within a life sciences discipline.
• Have significant experience in industrial or academic research setting
• Have track record of overseeing and managing laboratory operations either in an industry or academic laboratory.
• Have experience in managing animal colonies, orders, inventory and laboratory health and safety.
• Be open-minded, creative, self-propelling, and have excellent communication skills.
• Have a genuine interest in supporting neuroscience research in a long-term role.
• Be able to work independently and also capable of collaborating within a group.
• Ideally be experienced in histology and microscopy, and/or rodent surgery.
• Ideally have studied neurobiology, or have worked in neuroscience labs.

Contract terms

We have funding available for a full-time 6-year contract, in the first instance. This is strictly a non-remote post, however, we are open to discussing part-time work arrangements to accommodate individual circumstances (e.g., at 80% FTE). The post is available from October 2024 onwards.

Please include any mentoring of students, public engagement or specific technical training you have completed. We will also need the contact details of two individuals who can serve as references.

The application deadline is 30th April 2024, and we aim to hold Zoom interviews for shortlisted candidates between 6th and 9th May 2024. The top candidate(s) will then be invited to a final in person interview.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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