Insectary Technician

Location: South Kensington Campus

About the role

We are seeking to appoint an Insectary Technician to join a world-leading and dynamic research team at the Department of Life Sciences at Imperial College London. You will join the team of Dr. Nikolai Windbichler (windbichlerlab.org/) based at South Kensington Campus.

The lab seeks to further develop the revolutionary gene drive technology for the control of agricultural insect pest species and vectors of human disease. It sits at the intersection of engineering biology, genomics, genetics and entomology.

The goal of the project is to develop new and innovative genetic control offers a species-specific approach to tackle this problem by delivering novel traits into target populations via the release of modified insects. The project is part of a wider collaborative network; thus, the role will involve a high degree of teamwork and interdisciplinary research.

What you would be doing

These include:

• Rearing and maintenance of wild-type and transgenic lines of Ceratitis medflies and Anopheles mosquitoes
• Setting up genetic crosses and performing embryo microinjections
• Tissue dissections and genomic DNA extraction from medfly samples
• To keep the conditions and hygiene of insectary facilities at a high standard
• To prepare and carry out experiments following guidelines and analyse results using a range of agreed procedures
• To prepare media and chemical solutions

What we are looking for

You must be in possession of an Undergraduate Degree in relevant subject. Demonstrable experience of working with Drosophila, Ceratitis Anopheles or any other insect species, as well as a good knowledge of insect genetics and transgenesis, and practical experience of working within a highly competitive research environment are desirable. Good knowledge of genomics and experience in insect biology is desirable.

You must be a highly motivated, innovative, and creative individual with demonstrable ability to develop and apply new concepts, and a proactive approach to problem solving. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and proven ability to write clearly and succinctly for high profile publications are also essential. The successful candidate must be able to organise and prioritise their own work with minimal supervision and to independently drive forward their research project.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

Should you require any further details on the role please contact:

Dr Nikolai Windbichler – n.windbichler@imperial.ac.uk.

Advert information