Senior Research Technician

Salary: As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 5, salary £30,554

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to September 2028

Background

We are seeking to appoint a Senior Research Technician to support the research activities of the Rezaval lab at the University of Birmingham (https://www.rezavallab.org/). The post is full-time, initially for 3 years, with potential for extension. 

The post holder will be an active research member, conducting individual research as directed by Dr Rezaval, and assisting her research group with experimental procedures, thus contributing to delivering on project aims and providing input into future directions of designated research projects.

The successful applicant will be required to work closely with members of the Rezaval lab providing day-to-day support by carrying out molecular biology methods, immunohistochemistry, behaviour, microscopy and Drosophila genetics, as well as aiding with routine fly work. They will also be responsible for maintenance of the laboratory’s collection of Drosophila stocks, and for supporting the day-to-day running of the laboratory.

Main Duties

• You will be responsible for assisting in managing the experimental and laboratories. Specifically experiments under the guidance of the group leader, which might include: Husbandry of fruit-flies (Drosophila), Genetics, Dissections of the Drosophila nervous system, Antibody stainings, Microscopy, Behaviour and Molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR, CRISPR/Cas9, etc).
• You will use your in-depth knowledge of methods and procedures to advise on techniques and experimental procedures being used by researchers and/or students. This will involve communicating with colleagues at a range of levels and inexperienced students. 
• You will need to be able to diagnose and resolve problems and suggest solutions in regard to techniques and experiments.
• Carry out specialist technical and experimental procedures which will need you to use your judgment to assess the correct technique to use, and to consider how these may be improved, referring to your manager for approval on any proposed changes.
• Analysing and presenting data / work in the form of short written reports or orally within the group at internal meetings.
• You will need to maintain accurate records of all techniques and experimental procedures you carry out, and for any other research activities you may be involved in including results. 
• Ensure compliance with legislation relevant to the area of research/activity.
• Comply with and promote the operating procedures for the area, including the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures regulation.
• You may contribute to internal and external audit procedures and to regulatory inspections.

Person Specification

• Extensive relevant workplace experience, equivalent professional qualification or degree in an appropriate subject.
• GCSE level 2 (A*- C/4-9) or equivalent level 2 qualification in mathematics and English. 
• In-depth practical knowledge of relevant technical and scientific methods. 
• Extensive experience of similar laboratory based work, together with familiarity with a wide range of laboratory equipment.

Informal enquiries can be made to Carolina Rezaval, email: c.rezaval@bham.ac.uk

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

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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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