Laboratory and Insectary Manager

About the role:

We are seeking a skilled Laboratory and Insectary Manager to support the operational and scientific activities of the Translation Research and Training Facility (TRTF), a £5m state-of-the-art centre dedicated to developing genetic technologies for malaria vector control. This role is part of Target Malaria, an international consortium advancing innovative genetic approaches to reduce malaria transmission in Africa.

What you would be doing:

The role involves managing the daily operations of the TRTF’s insectary and molecular laboratory spaces to maintain efficient workflows and high-quality research output. It includes overseeing the rearing, maintenance and monitoring of Anopheles mosquito colonies, including genetically modified strains, under Arthropod Containment Level 2 conditions, as well as supporting the establishment and setup of insectaries and laboratory infrastructure through equipment procurement, validation and maintenance.

You will lead and develop a technical team through recruitment, training, supervision, and day-to-day coordination of activities, while ensuring accurate record-keeping, effective stock control, rota management, and adherence to financial and procurement procedures. The role also contributes to the development of SOPs, quality management processes and regulatory documentation required for translational research and future field evaluations. In addition, you will provide technical guidance and assist the training of African partner teams to support capacity building and knowledge transfer across the Target Malaria consortium.

What we are looking for:

The ideal candidate will have a degree or equivalent experience in Life Sciences, with practical expertise in insect rearing — preferably mosquitoes — and familiarity with working with genetically modified organisms. You should be comfortable with molecular biology methods and routine laboratory practices and have experience running the operational aspects of an insectary or laboratory, including stock control and basic equipment maintenance. A sound understanding of biosafety requirements for GMO work and the implications of non-compliance is essential, as is the ability design, develop and implement scientific research studies.

The role requires excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to work effectively with colleagues from a range of cultural and professional backgrounds. Experience in working in technical teams, supervising and training junior technical staff and students is required. Flexibility is also essential, including a willingness to support operational needs and occasionally travel to collaborating sites. You will also be expected to work collaboratively and be open-minded, taking a positive approach to routine work and training opportunities relevant to the role. 

What we can offer you:

This role offers a key management position within a pioneering research facility focused on advancing innovations that could significantly improve malaria control. It provides the chance to collaborate with leading scientists across Europe, Africa and North America as part of a major international consortium, while working with cutting-edge molecular and insectary technologies that support ongoing professional development. You will join a supportive, inclusive community at one of the world’s top universities and benefit from a competitive salary and generous leave.

Further Information

Target Malaria (targetmalaria.org) is a not-for-profit research consortium that aims to develop and share new, cost-effective and sustainable genetic technologies to modify mosquitoes and reduce malaria transmission.

This is a full-time post (35 hours per week).

This role is for a fixed-term contract until 31 December 2029.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Andy McKemey – a.mckemey@imperial.ac.uk 

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