Senior Technician (Protein Production)

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Senior Technician (Protein Production) within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, based at the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB).

This role offers an exciting opportunity to provide specialist technical support for cutting‑edge research within the laboratory of Professor Jon Waltho, focused on the mechanistic and structural analysis of enzymes. You will play a key role in supporting research through the expression, purification and characterisation of proteins for advanced applications including NMR and crystallography.

This is a full‑time (35 hours per week), fixed‑term role for up to 18 months.

You will work as part of a dynamic technical operations team, contributing to the delivery of world‑class research and teaching and helping to maintain a high‑quality, safe and efficient laboratory environment.

You will be responsible for:

• Leading and supporting the expression, purification and characterisation of proteins, including labelled proteins for advanced structural techniques
• Managing laboratory operations, including stock control, procurement and equipment maintenance
• Troubleshooting experiments and technical issues, ensuring continuity of research activities
• Providing training, supervision and guidance to PhD students and other laboratory users
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, including risk assessments and safe laboratory practices

We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.

About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:

Essential Criteria

• Strong background in microbiology, molecular biology and biochemistry
• Practical experience in techniques such as DNA cloning, protein expression (e.g. E. coli), protein purification and biochemical assays
• Experience working in a laboratory environment with a strong understanding of biosafety and health & safety practices
• Excellent organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Ability to support, supervise and train staff and students

Desirable Criteria

• Experience supporting research outputs, such as publications or grant activity
• Experience in a higher education or research setting
• Health and safety qualification or additional compliance experience
• Line management or supervisory experience

We value reliability, technical expertise and a strong customer‑focused approach as much as formal qualifications.

Our benefits include:

• Generous employer pension contribution
• Christmas closure in addition to annual leave and bank holidays
• Access to training and professional development opportunities

For more information, please see
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/connect/jobs/benefits-working-here/.
You can also find information on Flexible and Hybrid working here:
https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/people/current-staff/flexible-and-hybrid-working/.

We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy:
https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/news/display/?id=32905.

Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews
Name: Derren Heyes
Email Address: derren.heyes@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries and administrative support
recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk

Technical and job portal support
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK.

Applications close at midnight on the closing date.

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