Technical Specialist - Biological Science

Location: Stirling Campus

Contract type: Open Ended 

The Post

The post will deliver molecular and cellular biology technical skills for academic and other colleagues within the Faculty. The role is part of a team of technical specialists delivering learning, teaching and research support to the laboratories within the Biological and Environmental Science and Aquaculture divisions.

As a key member of the Biological Science team the postholder will work with academic staff to ensure the efficient delivery of Molecular and Cellular Biology technical skills across the faculty ensuring that technical services are delivered to the highest standard when and where they are needed. The position will ensure technical skills are kept up-to-date and the role will have responsibilities to ensure that the highest health and safety standards are maintained at all times.

The Biological Sciences Technical Specialist team will support academics and other project leaders with all aspects of molecular and cellular biology including: cloning, gene expression, cell culture and microbiology. Biological Science Technical Specialists will use a range of experimental techniques including DNA sequencing, PCR and qPCR analysis and advanced cellular biology procedures. The role will support both the faculty’s learning and teaching and its research and enterprise agendas.

Description of Duties

• Core molecular tasks to include the extraction of nucleic acids, the development and application of qPCR assays including: cloning, sequencing and assay verification
• Growth of bacteria and cell cultures using traditional and novel culture techniques
• Contribute to the development of teaching and support delivery of practical sessions to students
• Provide technical guidance for specific project tasks and supervise less experienced members of staff and students
• Act as a recognised source of technical expertise to troubleshoot and diagnose any problems or issues as they occur

Essential Criteria

Qualifications

• Educated to Degree level or equivalent (where no formal qualifications are held, additional, relevant experience is required)

Knowledge & Experience

• Strong understanding of modern molecular and microbiology techniques
• Practical experience in molecular biology techniques and microbiology assays including working with bacterial isolates, extraction of nucleic acids, development and application of qPCR assays including: cloning, sequencing and assay verification
• Experience in supporting academic research projects
• Experience in training and supervising students and junior colleagues in laboratory techniques
• Ability to engage with academic literature and writing of reports

Skills & Attributes

• Ability to organise own and other’s activities to maintain timely provision of results and staff and student training
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work under own direction with minimal supervision on routine laboratory matters
• Ability to confidently engage with colleagues at all levels and to gain the confidence of members of staff and students across the university

For further information, including a full description of duties, essential criteria and details on how to apply, please see  Vacancy details | University of Stirling

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